road trip north london

21 Perfect Road Trips From London & Short Trips From London By Car!

Categories England , London , U.K

There are so many places to visit near London! There are many day trips from London by train that you can do, but if you really want to get out of the big smoke, into nature and somewhere new, a road trip from London is the answer !

Below are ideas from myself and my blogging friends on short trips from London and the best places to visit in the UK .

These include road trips from London that you can do as day trips from London and 2-5 day trips from London if you want to make a London road trip into a UK Staycation !

Road trips are all about getting into nature so these road trip from London ideas are based on visiting the coast , countryside and small villages  outside of London to provide a more exciting road trip from London adventure!

Whether you live in London, or you are visiting London as a tourist, here are UK road trip ideas from London and the best road trips from London to help you start planning your London getaway!

Road Trips from London

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Road Trip From London Map

Here is a map with the below road trip from London destinations on it to help you work out which part of the UK will be best for your London Road Trip depending on the time you have!

Car Hire From London

If you don’t have a car as most Londoners don’t, I’ve found the best place to hire a car from in London is from one of the London Airports ! I recommend using Rental Cars as they search all the top car hire companies!

Search for the best car hire prices in London here!

TRAVEL TIPS

🏘️Book your accommodation

Booking.com and Hostelworld will help you to book accommodation and check availability in advance

🚘To get your car rental in advance

and to make your trip more convenient, you can use Rentalcars.com and find the most suitable option for you

🧾Get your tickets and guided tours

with Viator and GetYourGuide to get the most out of your journey

Best Road Trips From London

Here are the best recommendations for road trips from London!

The Channel Island of Jersey is a great island escape form London and the UK, without leaving the UK. Drive down to Poole and catch the 4 Hour 40 Minute scenic car ferry from Poole to Jersey Channel Island .

Jersey works perfectly as a 3 day road trip from London!

Jersey is a small island which makes road-tripping around Jersey a lot of fun because you can see so much!

However although small, Jersey is packed with natural attractions, historic attractions and amazingly good food, perfect for a weekend road trip from London!

Things to do in Jersey:

On your Jersey Channel Island itinerary , I recommend trying a surf lesson on the West Coast of the Island. Going hiking along the North Coast of the Island and going out on a RIB Boat Trip Adventure on the East Coast in search for seals!

I also really recommend having dinner at The Boat House in the pretty village of St Aubin. You’ll be sure to return back to London refreshed and relaxed from all that island air!

Diving Distance from London: 7 Hours by Road & Ferry

Suggested By: The Wandering Quinn

2. Cotswolds Villages

If you’d like to escape London for some peace and relaxation, there’s no better place to go than the beautiful English countryside !

Not too far away from London is the Cotswolds “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”, a collection of charming little villages surrounded by rolling green hills and stunning scenery. 

Whether you’re looking to take a day trip from London or searching for the perfect weekend getaway, visiting a few of the Cotswolds villages makes an excellent choice when it comes to planning a road trip from London, no matter the length you choose.

Some of the most picturesque villages to visit in the Cotswolds region are Bibury, Lower Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Castle Combe (but there are so many more!).

The beauty of the Cotswolds villages is that they are all located close to one another and they are easy to reach from London in just a few hours making it a great road trip in England from London.

The best things to do when visiting any of the villages are exploring the pretty cobbled streets admiring the beautiful historic buildings, popping into a cosy historic pub for a bite to eat, and taking a scenic walk around the countryside to soak up the peaceful atmosphere!

Diving Distance from London: 87 Miles. 2 Hours.

Suggested By: The Road is Life

Click here to book a full day tour to Cotswolds from London via get your guide

3. Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile stretch of jagged coastline in southern England. Famed for its beautiful beaches, iconic country landscapes and captivating coastal hiking paths, it’s the ideal setting for a weekend from London where being in nature is your top priority.

Doing a r oad trip from London along the Jurassic Coast will encapsulate the best places in Dorset and Devon for a full Dorset and Devon Road Trip !

The defining icon of the Jurassic Coast is Old Harry Rocks ; a collection of dazzling white limestone stacks arranged along the coast like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be assembled.

It’s the perfect place to unwind and watch the sun go down in front of iconic scenery.

Lulworth Cove is a circular cove surrounded by a sweeping arc of pebbles, backed by steep cliffs. It’s a beautiful part of England and the best way to see it is on a stroll along the coast to Durdle Door.

This walk, with towering cliffs on one side and bucolic countryside on the other, is one of the best short walks on the Jurassic Coast .

Corfe Castle , an 11th-century ruin, is an engrossing and atmospheric spot to catch the sunrise and Lyme Regis is a lovely seaside town to visit.

From the short but steep climb up nearby West Hill, the view as the sun lights up the decaying stone is a mesmerising way to experience the Jurassic Coast, a fantastic UK road trip from London!

Diving Distance from London:  125 Miles. 2 Hours 45 Minutes.

Suggested By: Anywhere We Roam

We know that staycations are all the rage right now so also see these 15 UK Staycation Ideas for this year!

4. Suffolk Coast

At about 2.5 hours from London , the Suffolk coast is a great choice for a day trip from London, but it’s such a beautiful part of the world and so quiet that you’ll want to stay for a weekend.

Suffolk is one of the most unspoiled parts of the UK and with over 50 miles of heritage coastline, there’s plenty of space to go and stretch your legs on its many beautiful and uncrowded beaches.

On a Suffolk road trip from London, the most popular beaches to visit are Aldeburgh, Southwold and Thorpeness , but if you’re looking to completely get away from it all, then Dunwich, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a great choice.

It’s home to the National Trust owned Dunwich Heath, which is a beautiful spot for walks.

If you’re looking to do an overnight road trip from London by car, the Cliff House Holiday Park is a lovely campsite right on the cliffs where you can pitch a tent, caravan or hire a lodge

Diving Distance from London: 100 Miles. 2 Hours 30 Minutes.

Suggested By: UK Family Travel

Devon is often overlooked because of the popular county of Cornwall but a Devon road trip is a brilliant trip to do and the benefit of visiting Devon from London instead of Cornwall from London is that going to Devon will shave off a good 1-2 hours from your journey!

Devon has a North Coast and South Coast to visit plus inland places like Dartmoor National Park , I spent 3 days in Devon exploring all 3 areas and it was enough time to see a lot!

Devon still has the Jurassic Coast , just like Dorset so walking From Branscombe to the pretty village of Beer along the coast is a popular thing to do. So is going to the Victorian seaside town of Sidmouth and visiting the nearby Donkey Sanctuary.

On the North Coast of Devon there is Woolacombe beach , a popular place for surfing and families to visit and it isn’t too far from the edge of Cornwall where Bude is, so you can do a Devon and Cornwall Road Trip in one go!

Diving Distance from London: 180 miles / 3 hours 40 minutes

Suggested By:   The Wandering Quinn

6. Brecon Beacons, Wales

A road trip from London to the Brecon Beacons will take you through some beautiful spots in England and Wales and it’s easily accessible via the M4!

Once in the Brecon Beacons National Park , you can spend a few days hiking. Popular hikes are to the top of Pen Y Fan , the biggest peak in South Wales and South England, there’s also a great Brecon 4 Waterfalls Walk .

Because you’ll have your car you should drive along the Black Mountain Road which offers stunning views and is known as the Top Gear Road.

For relaxing the Brecon Beacons is filled with lovely towns and villages like Hay on Wye which is perfect for those who like literature and unique places!

Afterwards, you can stop in Cardiff and check our Cardiff Castle and Cardiff Bay before going back to London!

Diving Distance from London: 180 miles / 4 hours

7. Pembrokeshire, Wales

The drive from London to Pembrokeshire isn’t the shortest so this is best if you have at least 3 days or even 1 week to spend on a short trip from London.

However, Pembrokeshire is an amazing part of Wales and the most visited for holidays because of its endless beaches , a full coastal walk linking every beach, family fun activities, a huge amount of campsites, holiday parks and pretty Welsh villages.

Tenby is the most popular place to visit in Pembrokeshire and there are lots of cottages in Tenby and campsites near Tenby to stay.

Saun dersfoot Beach and Barafundle Bay are also popular beaches to visit.

Bosherston Lilly Ponds , Stack Rock Fort and St Govans Chapel are my recommended hidden gems in Pembrokeshire to visit to make your short trip from London to Wales really memorable!

Diving Distance from London: 240 miles / 4 hours 40 minutes

8. Barry Island, Wales

Visiting South Wales is a great idea for a road trip from London as both places are either end of the M4 and takes around 3.5 hours by car .

One of the best places to visit on a road trip from London in Wales is Barry Island especially if you’re looking for a trip to the seaside for some tasty fish and chips and easy hikes around the coast. 

When going on a road trip to Barry Island from London, there’s cheap and all-day parking in close walking distance to the attractions and two accessible roads because it’s not an actual island (anymore).

The best things to do on Barry Island include riding the fairground , indulging on candy floss and stick-a-rocks, making sandcastles, renting a colourful beach hut and playing crazy golf on the promenade. Here are the best beaches in Barry !

If you’re brave enough, you could dip in the freezing ocean for a swim or attempt to win prizes in the arcade grabbers.

The unmissable thing to do on Barry Island, however, is enjoy everything Gavin and Stacey which was set and filmed around the area.

On your visit, be sure to read this guide to Gavin and Stacey filming locations and take a selfie with the cast billboard at Marco’s cafe for a memorable weekend road trip from London!

Diving Distance from London: 160 Miles. 3 hours 15 minutes.

Suggested By:   The Happy Days Travels

For Wales ideas also see: Places to Visit on a Wales Road Trip & Places for Staycations in Wales !

9. Isle of Wight

One of the most unique places you can visit on a road trip from London is the Isle of Wight .

Located just a stones throw away from the southern coast of England is a great place to spend a weekend away with friends and family.

From a few amazing beaches like Ryde beach to unusual experiences like visiting the Garlic Farm – there are so many things to do on the Isle of Wright.

Don’t forget to drive the famous Military Road , full of stunning cliffs views and to visit the Needles – one of the main landmarks on the Isle of Wight.

It’s better not to visit the isle of Wight during Bank Holidays in May but apart of that little island is a less touristy place – perfect for everyone willing to have great walks without crowds.

Diving Distance from London: 90 Miles. 3 Hours 10 Minutes.

Suggested By: Darek and Gosia

10. Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Ashdown Forest is a great place to stop on a road trip from London. For those who don’t know, Ashdown Forest is the real-life inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood where Winnie the Pooh lives.

A. A. Milne stated that he believed Ashdown Forest was enchanted, and spent many hours wandering through it.

Today, visitors can also walk through various parts of the forest and even try to find different characters from the books. The most popular activity is playing Poohsticks by the river.

Nearby is, of course, Pooh Corner the sweetshop where A. A. Milne would take Christopher Robin.

In addition to getting out and enjoying nature, it is worth stopping by many of the surrounding towns. In  East Grinstead  you can learn about the town’s fascinating connection to WWII or stand on the Meridian Line.

Or head South to Fletching and take an alpaca for a walk. The beautiful Tudor Hever Castle is just a 20 minute drive away!

Diving Distance from London:  36 Miles. 1 hour 20 minutes.

Suggested By: Cultura Obscura

Campervan Hire for UK Road Trips

Before we get into all of the best UK road trip ideas from London. If you want to go on a memorable road trip with the freedom and flexibility to stop and camp where you want , why not hire a Camper??

Let me introduce to you Indie Campers ! They provide Campervan hire in the UK and Europe and their London depot is close to Heathrow Airport which is the perfect place to start and end your London road trip! 

Indie Campers own a range of high-quality Campervans and provide a high level of assistance before your booking and during your booking. Best of all, you can change the dates of your booking FOR FREE up to 48 hours in advance in case your plans change, or the weather looks like it could be bad and you can reschedule for a sunnier trip!

When planning a road trip around the UK, visiting less-visited places  like the suggestions below, and staying self-contained is going to be the future of travel for a while, but that’s not a bad thing as it provides a new adventure! So be sure to look into Indie Campers for a unique Road Trip from London !

11. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Camber Sands in East Sussex is a wonderful day out or weekend away from London. The beach is over two miles long so there’s plenty of space for everyone to spread out.

In summer time Camber Sands is a wonderful spot for a swim or a paddle. Children love to visit for sandcastle building or flying a kite.

In wintertime, the beach is popular with horse riders and dog walkers and the sunsets are magnificent making this an all year round road trip from London!

Camber Sands is located just outside the medieval town of Rye near the border with Kent. There are plenty of interesting walks in the area as well as some good places to buy a take away lunch.

If you don’t want to stray too far from the beach, there are several restaurants next to the beach although most of Camber Sands is backed by sand dunes, making it very picturesque.

Ensure you arrive early at Camber Sands, on warm days the car parks can get very busy so plan your London road trip accordingly.

Diving Distance from London: 80 Miles. 2 Hours 10 Minutes.

Suggested By: Smudged Postcard

12. Lyme Regis, Dorset

When looking for a trip out of London, there is no greater escape from the crowds than the beach. A few hours drive from London and you can find yourself in the tranquil county of Dorset.

Famed for the beaches, cliffs and fossils , the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis is a great place to base yourself.

Due to the long drive, I would recommend spending at least a night, or perhaps even a weekend, in Lyme Regis  on this road trip from Lonon.

There are many things to do in Lyme Regis , the beach here is naturally pebbled, and you will often see people searching under the cliffs for fossils. There is also a man-made sand beach, great for when the sun comes out.

The main street of Lyme Regis is dotted with independent shops , and there is also an old working mill. In the summer, there is also the opportunity to take a boat trip from the harbour, wither for sightseeing or fishing.

In addition to this, there are some wonderful walks in the area. Many offer amazing views of the southern coastline.

Diving Distance from London: 154 Miles. 3 Hours.

Suggested By: Around The World With Her

13. Kent Villages

Kent isn’t known as “The Garden of England” for nothing. Kent is home to many quaint villages, amazing landscapes, historic castles, award-winning seaside resorts and breathtaking coastline views. 

There are indeed many beautiful villages in Kent to visit within 1-2 hours drive of London. You can reach Aylesford village in an hour which is on the River Medway, 4 miles to the northwest of Maidstone.

There are free car parks for visitors where you can find a walking path which leads you to the village and the countryside around it making Kent one of the great London road trip ideas for scenic drives near London.

Or, you can go to Godmersham, where you can find Godmersham Park. Keep in mind this park is not like any other parks, it is featured on 10 pounds notes. 

Fordwich, the smallest town in the UK With a population of 381 is also located in Kent on the River Stour. You can rent a boat and go on the river or just have a walk around. 

For the coastal walk, you can drive to Broadstairs, a pretty town on the Isle of Thanet, where you can visit Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot.

Diving Distance from London: 36 Miles. 1 Hour.

Suggested By:  Travel With Mansoureh

14. Peak District

Nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield and Derby, The Peak District National Park is the oldest National Park in the UK.

It’s only a 3-hour drive from London , and standing on the craggy edge of one of the Peak District’s escarpments, overlooking the expansive landscape of green rolling hills and quaint villages below, you will feel a million miles away from life in the Capital.

Grab your Ordnance Survey map and hiking boots and head for a hike in the hills. Whilst Mam Tor in the North, or Dovedale Stepping Stones in the South, are popular hiking destinations, perhaps head to Curbar Edge or the rolling hills around Monyash, which will be much quieter.

Alternatively, bring your bike in your car and cycle along the miles upon miles of disused railway tracks that criss-cross the National Park. These have been transformed into gravel paths that are entirely traffic-free.

Whilst it is very doable to do a day trip from London with an early start and late finish, a visit to the Peak District is all about connecting with nature and slowing the pace.

So really, you want to book in at least a full weekend to reap the benefits of this road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London: 150 Miles. 2 Hours 50 Minutes.

Suggested By: Peak District Kids

15. New Forest

The New Forest is a great place for a day trip from London or weekend road trip from London. There are several campsites in the area, where you can truly unwind and enjoy being close to nature.

You can take bikes with you or rent some, as the area has some great cycling trails. It is also a good destination for people, who want to go hiking near London .

You will most likely spot some wild horses on your outing. They are a common sight in the New Forest National Park. You can also book horse riding lessons and tours at most stables.

In the summer wild swimming is quite popular. There are several rope swings hung up by locals along the Lymington River.

Brockenhurst has a nice little area by the river, which is suitable for small children to paddle in the water. Families often come for a picnic at the river bank so this is a great option if you’re wanting to take a family road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London:  88 Miles. 1 Hour 40 Minutes.

Suggested By:  Travel Hacker Girl

16. Cornwall

A Cornwall road trip is best enjoyed on a long weekend road trip from London.

National Trust members can park for free in the specified car parks scattered around Cornwall, and the coastal paths are the best way to see the rugged Cornish coastline. 

One of the most scenic routes on the Cornish coastal path is the route from Sennen Cove to Lands End , which gives walkers views over the beautiful Sennen beach and harbour area.

It’s the perfect spot to see Cornish wildlife, including red-billed choughs, peregrines, kestrels and grey seals. Further along the Mayon Cliffs coastal path, you can also walk to Maen Castle and see the lighthouses/shipwrecks lining the path. 

As well as the coastal path walks, Cornwall has a plethora of beaches and coves to visit where you will find secluded spots to enjoy minus the other tourists.

Even tourist favourite, Kynance Cove has a variety of coves and rock pools to enjoy away from other tourists. The coastal path from Kynance Cove to Lizard Point takes 47 minutes to walk or 15 minutes to drive. 

Timing is often everything when it comes to visiting places like Cornwall, and getting up early to explore or visiting the beaches in the late afternoon/early evening are a great way to get around and see the sights without hordes of other tourists.

Cornwall has various National Trust and English Heritage sites to visit, including the legendary Tintagel, as well as waterfalls and green areas to visit. 

There’s no doubt that Cornwall is a tourist hotspot, it is the place to visit if you want to get a taste of The Med without leaving England, but there are plenty of places to visit minus the crowds so looking into a London to Cornwall road trip !

Diving Distance from London: 260 Miles. 5 Hours.

Suggested By: The Life of a Social Butterfly

Also see: Hidden Gems in Cornwall to Visit & Things to do in Padstow !

17. Norwich

Norwich is the perfect road trip destination from London as it is not as far as you think, just over 2 hours from Central London . It is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country, and has a thriving independent food and shopping scene.

Home to one of the largest open-air markets in the UK , a 12th-century castle, two cathedrals and a maze of cobbled stone streets.

It is a city that offers everything! After a day of exploring there are plenty of pubs, cocktail bars and restaurants serving local produce for you to enjoy.

Norwich also provides a great starting point to discover some of Norfolk’s most stunning countryside.

The beautiful North Norfolk coastline stretches for over 100 miles and things to do in Norfolk include discovering gorgeous beaches, adorable coastal villages and some amazing wildlife – the seals live here all year round!

Closer to the city you can find the Norfolk broads . A man-made warren of waterways which provide beautiful views and a great day trip out! A perfect weekend getaway with a mix of country and city. 

Diving Distance from London: 118 Miles. 2 Hours 25 Minutes.

Suggested By: Where Charlie Wanders

18. Stonehenge

A Stonehenge day trip from London is both easy and fun because you can easily drive from London to Stonehenge and I recommend stopping in Salisbury, a town with a wonderful cathedral, along the way.

Once you get there, you may be surprised by the fact you can’t actually enter the stone circle, but only see it from a distance.

The only time of the year when you can enter is Summer Solstice when you can access Stonehenge for free on a first come first served basis to see the sunrise aligning perfectly with the rocks.

All other times of the year, you can learn about Stonehenge at the visitor centre, where you’ll discover theories about how and why it was built, plus see a 360° audiovisual view, allowing you to stand virtually in the centre of the stone circle and see how it changes in different seasons. 

Visiting Stonehenge, touring the visitor centre and admiring the stone circle from different angles takes about 3/4 hours, making this destination ideal for a day trip from London by car.

For a weekend away, you could add Salisbury and nearby Avebury so you have enough to do to fill two days on your road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London: 88 Miles. 1 Hour 40 Minutes.

Suggested By: The Crowded Planet

Click here to book yourself a Stonehenge Tour via get your guide!

19. Glastonbury

Most people think of the festival when they hear the name ‘Glastonbury’; few know that the town is well worth visiting in its own right. If you like nature, history and unique shops, you’re in the right place!

Quirky Glastonbury is a fantastic day trip from London or weekend road trip from London – it’s manageable in a day, but if you have time, it’s best to camp out nearby, or stay in one of the lovely guesthouses in town to make it a weekend trip. 

The drive from London to Glastonbury enjoys lush green scenery as you cross the beautiful rural counties of Wiltshire and Somerset.

Glastonbury is surrounded by nature, and plenty of hiking opportunities can be had close to the town, including the famous Glastonbury Tor, a hill that is awash with Pagan and Christian legend and has spring water that is said to be healing running out from underneath.

In the town, there are the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, and lots of shops, where amongst the usual clothes and books, you can also buy tarot cards and crystal balls!

Its culture and history have given it the title of ‘England’s most magical town’; and any tourists there will definitely feel a mystical air as they walk around!

Suggested By: Go South West

Book yourself a full day tour of Glastonbury via Viator!

20. Avebury

Take a day trip from London and visit the largest stone circle in the world at Avebury in Wiltshire. Avebury Stone Circle has been there for since between 2850 and 2200 BC.

Avebury is set on a mound with a ditch running around it. The area has been used for farming for nearly 6,000 years and sheep still roam round the stones. Unlike Stonehenge, you can get up close and even touch the stones.

If you want a break from walking, you can stop for a bite to eat in the café at the barn or the Red Lion Pub, or have a look around the shops in the village.

The Alex Keiller Museum in the Museum Barn gives you an insight into the history of Avebury and the archaeological finds that have been made.

Walking tours around the stones can be booked at the museum too. The stones are free to walk round, though there is a charge for entering the Museum.

There is a large carpark which costs £4 per day for non-National Trust members and is free for members. The ticket machine only takes coins, so make sure you have change with you. There is parking for the disabled in the Old Farmyard.

Driving Distance from London: 83 Miles. 2 Hours

Suggested by: The Silver Nomad

21. London To Scotland

Finally, for something a bit different, if you have the time, and especially if you are flying into the UK for this UK Road Trip, why not look into a London to Scotland Road Trip or a Scotland to London Road Trip.

Indie Campers who I mentioned in this post have a depot near London Heathrow Airport and Edinburgh Airport which means you could start in Edinburgh and do a road trip to London visiting lots of places in Scotland and England in between, or a London to Edinburgh Road Trip. 

It would be best to do this as a 3-7 day road trip in the UK!

Diving Distance from London: 400 Miles. 7 Hours.

FAQs About Road Trips from London:

Here the answers to frequently asked questions about road trips from London:

What are good day trips from London?

Good day trips from London are those down to the South Coast to see the White Cliffs, Brighton, Kent and Bournemouth. More day trips from London that are great are to towns and cities like Windor, Bath, Bristol, The Cotswolds.

Where can you drive from London?

Once you get out of London driving is much easier so there are many places to drive from London like the South Coast of England, Essex, Kent, and to the West like South Wales, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.

Where can I go close to London?

The best places close to London to go are places in Kent, Brighton and Surrey

Where should I go within 2 hours in London?

You can get very far into South England with a 2 hour drive from London, you can get to Kent, Dorset, Surrey, Somerset and into The Cotswolds.

What are scenic road trips from London?

Scenic Road trips from London to go on are to the Jurassic Coast, the Sussex Coast, into Surrey, into The Cotswolds and the New Forest National Park.

Now you’re set with plenty of ideas for epic road trips from London!

More of my trips from London posts:

• 25 Day Trips from London by Train!
• 10 Alternative Day Trips from London to do!
• Things To Do in Oxford on a Day Trip from London.
• Things To Do in Brighton on a Day Trip from London.
• How to Visit the White Cliffs of Dover from London.

This post is in collaboration with Indie Campers.

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England Road Trip: 50 Unmissable ideas (for every UK itinerary)

Planning an England road trip? Here are some of the best itinerary ideas for all schedules, including London to Cornwall, the Cotswolds and Kent in southern England, National Parks like the Lake District or Peak District, Northern England and all the way up to the Scottish border.

Whatever your cup of tea, there’s a UK road trip idea here for you. We’ve also provided a helpful map so you can visualise your route.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

UK Road Trips- How to Plan

Planning a UK road trip to England or elsewhere can be tough. 

There are SO MANY places, ideas, options and reviews- how on earth are you supposed to choose the best way or most scenic drives?

Then, you have to factor in how long you have for your UK road trip (remembering that much of rural UK has smaller, slower roads, so it takes a lot longer to get there than you might expect. 

So, if you’re planning a road trip around England (and the UK) and feeling overwhelmed, here are some of our favourite road trips and itinerary ideas to help you. We’ll discuss the best bits of each area, why and when you should visit, how far it is from London and where you should allow extra time to explore.

England Road Trip Ideas- Where to Start

The first thing to decide is where you want to visit on your road trip. Also, remember that England is only one section of the UK- there are several other countries to explore (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland make up the United Kingdom).

So, if you want to do a full UK road trip, you’ll need more time than if you were just doing an England road trip.

Our biggest tip is not to overface yourself. Whether you only have a long weekend for a quick trip from London or a week to get out on the open road and tour, make sure you leave time to actually get out of your vehicle and explore the places you’re visiting- you’ll find plenty of historic sites, sandy beaches and incredible routes to enjoy. 

Roughly speaking, you can split England in half- the South of England and the North  (the line roughly goes through Birmingham) or even further into quarters if you only have time for a one-week road trip. 

Again, how far you can travel will depend on how much time you have, as well as how you are travelling (rental car, motorhome or public transport), but to do each half ‘properly’ we would recommend at least 2-3 weeks- especially if it’s your first time in England.

Having said that, you can see some of the best sights in less time than that- here’s our one week in England road trip itinerary .

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

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Where to stay during your England road trip

If you’re planning a motorhome or campervan trip , you’ll be able to travel and stop along the way, often without booking in advance, using schemes like Brit Stops or wild camping in your motorhome .

If you’re in a car or motorbike, there are PLENTY of hotels and BnBs to use en route. If you’re travelling in summer we recommend booking at least the first stop in advance- if you use Booking.com for all your accommodation you’ll find you can get a great deal and save a lot of money.

England Road Trip Map

I know how hard it can be to visualise places if you don’t know the country well, so here’s a map of England with several of the road trip destinations shown on it.

Out of interest, if you did this route, it’s about 1056 miles (1700km) long. You could technically do it in a week, but you’d barely have time to get out of the car!

Common England Road Trip Questions

How long does it take to drive the whole of england .

Many people wonder “ How long does it take to drive the whole of England ?” That’s a tough question, as there are so many places to go and depends a lot on your starting point.

Most people allow 2-3 weeks to drive through as much of England as they can, but that will involve a LOT of driving. Of course, you can take a look at the road trip itinerary ideas below and see which scenic route or quaint villages most appeal to you- and then plan your trip around that.

One common UK road trip idea is to drive from Land’s End in Cornwall all the way up to John o’Groats in Scotland, which is about 838miles (1350km). Obviously, this is a road trip which involves England AND Scotland, and that brings me to another important point.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Can we go to England by road?

This is a common question for anyone who doesn’t live in the UK- and the short answer is yes, you can drive to England from mainland Europe.

Whether you’re enjoying a European road trip (here are some ideas for you ), or want to combine a trip to England with another country, you can drive to England from Europe via either the Eurotunnel or taking one of several car ferries (they also take motorhomes/ campervans on most of the ferry routes.)

If you’re planning a road trip from France to England, which route you take will depend on which part of France and England you want to visit- find out more in our Eurotunnel vs Ferry post.

And if you’re going the other way and will be driving in Europe, make sure you are aware of the new rules for driving in Europe after BREXIT .

If you’re like more help planning your trip, this post about how to plan an epic UK road trip will help.

Is England the UK or Great Britain?

Neither. And part of both 🙂

It’s common for people to confuse an England road trip with a UK road trip. England is just one country within the UK, along with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want to extend your trip and see more of those countries, you might enjoy our post on the best UK road trips and scenic drive ideas.

The UK is short for ‘The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’.

Great Britain is the LANDMASS of the largest island in the British Isles (the one which makes up England, Wales and Scotland). Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are not included in this.

And, to make things even more odd, the British Isles includes ALL the islands, including the whole of Ireland, which isn’t part of the UK at all.

Thoroughly confused? Ok, let’s just stick to England road trip ideas! 🙂

South England Road Trip Ideas

If you’re visiting London and want to explore part of the country for a few days, southern England is a good place to start. Of course, there are a HUGE number of places to explore in ‘South England’ (which is roughly classed as anywhere below Birmingham), so I’m just going to pick a few highlights to inspire you.

Cornwall- South West England

Cornwall is one of my favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Also, they have some of the best ice cream IN THE WORLD (no kidding) and it’s perfectly acceptable to eat a scone with jam and clotted cream EVERY day and no one will judge you.

IMPORTANT NOTE : There is intense rivalry between Devon and Cornwall over whether jam or cream should go first on a scone. In Cornwall, they do jam and THEN cream, which is apparently the way the Queen preferred her scones .

(Don’t worry, they’re used to tourists and won’t stone you if you get it wrong. But be warned if you want to live there…!) 

In Devon, they do it the other way. I’ve tried both, and I’m a jam first girl (because you can then put more cream on!)

When should you visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is best anytime between Easter and mid-October.

TOP TIP : Avoid July and August if you possibly can. The schools are on holiday and it feels like EVERYONE in England has travelled to the same small Cornish village as you.

Beaches are overcrowded, parking becomes a struggle and there’s a very real chance of shops running out of ice cream. Don’t do that to yourself. You deserve that ice cream.

Also, many businesses and attractions close after mid-October for the winter, so you might find you can’t do everything you want to outside the season.

Having said that, we find Cornwall one of the best places to enjoy Autumn in Europe – the weather is still warm, but everywhere is quieter and easier to get to.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Did I mention that I used to live here? I have SO many recommendations for places to visit we could be here all week!!! Some of my absolute favourites (and this is like choosing my favourite child… or chocolate bar) include:

• Tintagel Castle (the home of Arthur and the round table)
• Minack Theatre (built onto the side of a cliff)
• St Michael’s Mount
• Boscastle (where one of the best witchcraft museums in the world is!)
• Newquay beach (and bars!)

READ MORE: Discover our complete Cornwall road trip itinerary (45 places you HAVE to see!)

Recommended by Ben at Driftwood Journals

Famed for its endless rolling hills, craggy coastlines and clotted cream delights, Devon is unsurprisingly one of the most popular destinations in the UK – and a dream for rural road-trippers! With wild moors galore, cutesy towns and villages, and bountiful beaches, you don’t have to drive far in Devon to stumble upon scenes of unparalleled beauty.

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

• Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county (and home of the Royal Naval Officer training. I spent a year here…running up those bl***y hills!) Hire a boat and explore the river.
• Paignton- the beach with the red sand and is also known as the English Riviera.
• Dartmoor National Park
• Exmoor National Park
• Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
• Salcombe Harbour – a holiday hotspot for all generations.
• Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tearoom; you won’t regret it!

Devon road trip ideas

Pack up your motorhome/ camper (or car with tent) and find a site with views across the Devonshire cow-grazed hillsides of the Lyn Valley, or out over Dartmoor. You can wild camp in Devon, but not on the moors. Find out more about motorhome wild camping in the UK.

For a coastal trip, explore sea towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth (where you can take a boat up to Greenway, Agatha Christie’s summer home) and round to Exmouth, before heading north to Woolacombe, Dawlish and the fishing boat bobbing harbour of Ilfracombe. Enjoy the bustle and culture in the capital of Exeter or discover the notorious prison of Dartmoor.

Alternatively, head to North Devon and enjoy the wilder seas and views of the north coast. This is a great area for surfing and watersports.

If you have more time (and fuel) to burn, take to the A386 between Appledore and Plymouth, traversing through forested valleys to picture-perfect towns like Great Torrington and Tavistock, where you can tour the tearooms and plan the rest of your trip in the park while dangling your toes in the River Tavy.

But the true beauty of road tripping in Devon is that you don’t really need to plan too extensively. You’ll never be far from a cream tea pitstop, and the verdant country roads will offer up some of the most perfect picnic spots you’ll ever see. All you need is is a full tank, and a little patience when stuck behind tractor after tractor!

When is the best time to visit Devon on a road trip?

As with Cornwall, the best time to visit Devon is Spring to Autumn, but avoid the high summer months if you can, especially if you’re on a UK motorhome holiday .

Can you visit Devon on a day trip from London?

You can, but it’s quite a long drive. I’d say you’d need at least 2 or 3 days to really be able to explore anything.

Dorset- One of England’s Best Road Trips

Recommended by Paul | Anywhere We Roam

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles across Dorset in southern England. With an iconic coastline of towering white cliffs, it’s an excellent destination for a classic road trip. Stunning scenery, historical sites and local breweries make the Jurassic Coast one of the best places to experience the beautiful English countryside.

Dorset road trip- best places to visit?

The main highlight of a road trip to Dorset in the area has to be Old Harry Rocks – a collection of white stone monoliths that have been carved out along the coast. It’s one of the most impressive stretches of scenery in the UK with dazzling chalk stacks assembled like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be completed. If you get time, be sure to enjoy one of the many fabulous Dorset walks- you won’t regret it.

A thirty-minute drive away, Corfe Castle stands as a reminder of England’s 11th-Century past. It was one of the earliest Norman castles built and today it glows in its dilapidated glory overlooking the Dorset hills. It’s a stunning, photogenic inclusion on a UK road trip.

For another natural phenomenon, Durdle Door is possibly one of the most recognisable symbols of the Jurassic Coast. Over time, crashing waves have eroded limestone stacks in the sea leaving a glorious natural arch.

It’s a beautiful stretch of beach, ideal for a long summer stroll. It’s also next to the famous Lulworth Cove, which is a wonderful place to enjoy an ice cream!

Editors note: (I (Kat) actually jumped off the top of Durdle Door on my hen party!)

After soaking up the stunning scenery, head west to Lyme Regis, a quaint town with a vibrant independent retail scene. The historic Cobb Harbour set against moody cliffs is well-preserved and houses some of the best coffee in the area.

When is the best time to visit Dorset on an England road trip?

The best time to visit the Jurassic Coast on a road trip is from May to early July when the surrounding countryside will be verdant green and covered in wildflowers, but there’s not too much traffic!

Hampshire road trip

Hampshire is another county in England we know well, having lived here for 14+ years. There’s plenty to enjoy on a road trip to Hampshire, from beautiful cities to picturesque country houses.

Highlights of a Hampshire road trip

Some of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire include:

• Winchester- be sure to visit the Cathedral where Jane Austen is buried and you can see one of the oldest Bibles in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in December, don’t miss the famous Winchester Christmas Market , held in the Cathedral grounds each December.
• Highclere Castle (or Downton Abbey, as you might know it!)
• Lymington – for the oldest open sea water baths in the UK – and the New Forest (check out the Wildlife park there and make sure to take some memorable photos).
• Hinton Ampner- 18th century famous manor house known for its gardens.
• Portsmouth (you MUST go to the Mary Rose museum and HMS Victory)
• Isle of Wight (see below)

Isle of Wight road trip

Recommended by Darek | DarekandGosia

The  Isle of Wight , famous for its beautiful views, is an island on the south coast of England, just below Southampton. Technically, it’s part of Hampshire, but feels like a different world.

With a motorhome or car, you can reach the island by ferry from either Southampton or Portsmouth – book in advance during summer. There are also a couple of foot passenger ferries and a hovercraft from Southsea.

Why is it one of England’s best road trips?

The Isle of Wight is like going back in time. It’s worth a road trip here for even a weekend, to escape the hustle and bustle of normal life, ride bikes and take a walk on the cliffs.

Also, there are some wonderful places to stay. If you’re on a road trip, check out these amazing Isle of Wight campsites – some with stunning sea views!

What is there to do?

You can start exploring the island in Shanklin – one of the coastal villages famous for its beautiful beaches. On the promenade along the sea you will find many restaurants and hotels – most of the Island is typically tourist-oriented.

From Shanklin drive to the western part of the island. The most characteristic point is The Needles – three chalk rocks emerging from the sea with a small lighthouse built at the end of one of the columns. You can get to Needles by car and then follow the path on foot to the cliff slope. It’s a fabulous place for a picnic.

Next to Needles is Old Battery, a military fortification dating from the nineteenth century. There you can find World War II memorabilia or visit one of the various exhibitions are also taking place.

While driving around the island make sure you get to Carisbrooke Castle near Newport. Its construction began in the 12th century. It is worth taking a moment to walk around the castle, relax in the Edwardian-style garden.

One of my favourite places on the Island is Osborne House- Queen Victoria’s summer home. You can walk around the gardens and the house and even enjoy an ice cream on her private beach. Osborne House is run by English Heritage.

When is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight is a must-see for anyone who wants to admire the British climate and above all fantastic views. It is worth going here all year round – it’s actually one of the best places to visit in Europe in October , when there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy the views & roads!

Norfolk Broads

Recommended by Mandi | Big Family, Little Adventures

Sometimes you want nothing more than to escape the hustle and the bustle of everyday life, the noise, the bright lights, the never-ending pace of life. If you want to get away, the Norfolk Broads is pure escapism; big skies, plenty of peace and quiet and an abundance of wildlife.

Best places to visit in Norfolk on a road trip

• The Old Roman Fort at Burgh Castle with an elevated position and commanding views over the marshes – perfect for a walk in both winter morning frost or a hot and hazy mid-summer evening
• If you prefer a bit of activity, Wroxham is a bustling Broads village- home to Roy’s of Wroxham, possibly the largest village shop you have ever seen
• Plenty of riverside pubs and restaurants in Wroxham and all around the Broads- the perfect places to stop for a bite to eat
• St Benet’s Abbey – an 11th century monastery defying time, standing in a stunning green valley.
• If you are an animal lover, you will enjoy a visit to Wroxham Barns to feed the lambs or spot the grey seals on the Norfolk beaches

Norfolk Road Trip- when is the best time to visit?

You can explore Norfolk all year. In summer, if you would like to explore the best Norfolk beaches or Broads up close, why not hire a dayboat; these can be hired at various boatyards throughout the Broads. Waveney River Centre is another stunning place to stop and admire the view, either by boat or car.

The challenge is (as always in England!) the weather. In dry conditions, most paths are excellent, but it can get a bit more challenging in wet weather.

However, over the years, an increasing number of boardwalks have been developed, increasing safe access to the Broads whatever the weather. Also, seeing the windmills and rivers on a crisp winter morning is unforgettable.

Time does not stop in Norfolk, but it really does feel like it slows down.  To be able to watch the sunset across the broads any time of year is a magical experience and the perfect place to enjoy a chilled road trip.

Sussex, Kent and Surrey

Ahhh, the picturesque south-east corner of England, which includes the Garden of England (that’s the other name for Kent). This area is lush, green and has some many historic buildings and castles you’ll find it impossible to avoid them.

It’s also home to plenty of gorgeous sandy beaches, white cliffs (such as Dover and Beachy Head) and some truly wonderful parks to walk in.

Even better, it’s all easily reached from London by car and train, so it’s easy to get away from the city for a few days if you’d like a countryside break or a trip to the beach.

Best Places to visit in Sussex include:

Sussex is actually split into East and West Sussex, but to make things easy on your road trip I’ve made one list for you. They’re not that far apart from each other!

• Brighton : A vibrant seaside city famous for its pebble beach, iconic pier, and the Royal Pavilion with its distinctive architecture. Explore the Lanes for unique shops and enjoy the city’s lively arts and music scene. See below for more ideas
• Arundel : Home to Arundel Castle, a medieval and Victorian castle that overlooks the River Arun. The town itself is picturesque with cobbled streets and antique shops.
• Chichester : A historic cathedral city with Roman origins, Chichester offers a mix of history, culture, and shopping. The Chichester Cathedral and Pallant House Gallery are notable attractions.
• Lewes : Known for its medieval architecture, Lewes Castle, and historic streets. The Lewes Bonfire Night is a famous annual event.
• Eastbourne : A traditional seaside town with a Victorian pier, beautiful seafront, and the iconic Beachy Head cliffs nearby.
• Rye : A charming medieval town with cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and views of the surrounding marshland.
• Battle : Famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this town is home to Battle Abbey and the Battlefield. Explore the historic sites and learn about this pivotal event in English history.
• Petworth House and Park : A stately mansion with an impressive art collection set in a vast deer park. The gardens are also worth exploring.
• Seven Sisters Country Park : A stunning coastal area with dramatic chalk cliffs and rolling hills, perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views.
• Bodiam Castle : A 14th-century moated castle surrounded by water and picturesque landscapes.
• Sheffield Park and Garden : A National Trust property known for its stunning gardens, lakes, and vibrant displays of plants.
• Birling Gap and Beachy Head : More stunning chalk cliffs and coastal views, with the added beauty of the natural arch at Birling Gap.
• Glyndebourne Opera House : Known for its world-class opera productions, the opera house is set in beautiful countryside and offers a unique cultural experience.

Best places to visit in Kent include:

• Canterbury – home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral
• Dover : Known for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, this coastal town is home to Dover Castle, which boasts a complex history and offers panoramic views of the English Channel.
• Rochester : A charming town with a medieval castle and cathedral. It’s also the birthplace of Charles Dickens, and you can visit the Dickens World theme park.
• Whitstable : This coastal town is famous for its oysters and seafood. Enjoy the quaint streets, beach huts, and seafood restaurants along the coast.
• Margate : A seaside town with a revived artistic scene, featuring the Turner Contemporary art gallery and the scenic Margate Sands.
• Leeds Castle : Often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle is set on an island in a lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Hever Castle : The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, with historic architecture, gardens, and a maze.
• Chatham Historic Dockyard : A maritime museum where you can explore historic warships, submarines, and learn about Britain’s naval history.
• Biddenden Vineyards : If you’re a wine enthusiast, Kent has several vineyards. Biddenden is one of the oldest and most well-known.
• Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction : An interactive museum where you can step back in time to experience Chaucer’s famous tales.
• St. Augustine’s Abbey : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this abbey in Canterbury dates back to the 6th century and is a significant historical site.
• Chartwell House : The former home of Winston Churchill, now a museum showcasing his life and legacy.

These are just a few highlights of what Kent has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, you’re likely to find something appealing in this diverse and beautiful county.

Best Places to Visit in Surrey

• Box Hill : A National Trust site known for its stunning views and walking trails. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
• Polesden Lacey : A grand Edwardian estate with beautiful gardens, Polesden Lacey is a National Trust property that offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
• Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village : Located in Compton, this unique attraction is dedicated to the works of Victorian artist George Frederic Watts and his wife Mary Watts. The village includes a gallery, chapel, and artist studios.
• Hampton Court Palace : While part of the palace is in Greater London, the stunning Hampton Court Palace is right on the border of Surrey. It’s famous for its Tudor history, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens.
• RHS Garden Wisley : A flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, Wisley offers a wide variety of plants, landscapes, and garden designs to explore.
• Brooklands Museum : A museum dedicated to motorsport and aviation history, located on the site of the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit.
• Loseley Park : A grand Elizabethan manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, open to the public during certain times of the year.
• Denbies Wine Estate : England’s largest vineyard, Denbies offers tours, wine tasting, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Newlands Corner : Another viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
• Epsom Downs : Known for Epsom Downs Racecourse and the famous Epsom Derby, this area offers open spaces and walking trails.
• Virginia Water : Part of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water features a lake, ornamental cascades, and woodland walks.

Surrey’s mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it a delightful destination for a variety of interests. Whether you’re into history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying scenic landscapes, Surrey has something to offer.

Brighton – East Sussex

I’ve given Brighton it’s own section because it’s one of my favourite cities in England and you should try to add it to your England road trip itinerary, especially if you’re heading toward East Sussex.

Brighton is a city renowned for its diverse communities and innovation, the quirky shopping areas, its music and art scene, and its large LGBT population. Read more about Brighton in Autum .

Why is Brighton one of the best England road trips?

Brighton is less than an hour away from London (76 km) and on a direct train line. It offers plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy (more than just fish and chips at a pier!)

Brighton has been famous as a cultural centre for over a century. It’s home to the world’s oldest operating aquarium (which opened in 1872- now called ‘’Brighton Sea Life’’), and you can even ride the world’s oldest operating electric railway, the Volks Railway, built in 1883.

Other Brighton Highlights include:

• See the Palace Pier
• Catch the latest release in the Duke of York Picturehouse, Britain’s oldest cinema.
• Have a stroll down the North Lane- home to over 400 independent shops
• Discover the Victorian innovations still in operation in the city.

How long should you spend in Brighton?

You will want to spend at least two days in Brighton to truly take in the city, but you can easily make a week of your itinerary if you want to explore more places in Sussex, Kent and Surrey.  

What is the best month to visit Brighton?

The sunniest (and therefore warmest!) time of the year in Brighton is from May to September. July and August are peak tourist season, with hotel prices skyrocketing, so be aware of that and plan your stay accordingly.

Cambridgeshire & Cambridge

Cambridgeshire is a county in the East of England with plenty to do. The jewel of the county is Cambridge, with a historical, 800-year-old centre you should definitely not skip.

Why should you include Cambridge on your England road trip?

Only 1 hour and 30 minutes away from London via M11, Cambridge offers so much: a rich history of English heritage, a buzzing local community, and a picturesque setting. You’ll even find a gift Henry VIII gave to Anne Boleyn!

Cambridge Highlights

• See the King’s College Chapel 
• Enjoy breakfast at Fitzbillies
• Go punting in the River Cam
• Have a picnic by the river.
• Enjoy walking the historic streets

Cambridge Trip Itinerary idea

Leaving London, head up to Cambridge via the M11.

Start the day with drinks and a meal in one of the many deli and brunch places in Market Square before setting off to explore the city. I highly recommend the famous Fitzbillies- the food is delicious.

From there, you can choose from a variety of activities: visiting King’s Chapel, punting in the River Cam (pass under the Bridge of Sighs), hiking on the Cam Towpath (lots of hidden gems if you know how to look for trails!), or taking in the city views from St. Mary’s Tower.

If you’re staying overnight, end the day by attending the Evensong at the King’s College Chapel (select days only)

When is the best (and worst) time to visit Cambridge ?

Cambridge is beautiful all year round. However, the worst time to visit would be spring – the university students sit their finals between April and June, which means many of the college sites are closed to visitors. 

What are some of the best places to visit in Cambridge?

The King’s College Chapel in the University of Cambridge is the third-oldest university in operation and the most iconic and instantly-recognisable building in the county.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to drink at the Eagle, a historic pub in the heart of Cambridge’s city centre famously linked to Watson and Crick’s discovery of DNA.

If you are feeling adventurous and are ready to brave the British winter, visit Cambridge in December. It’s off-peak season and features one of the best UK Christmas markets you should visit. Read all about the Cambridge Christmas market here.

How long should you spend in Cambridge?

One day in Cambridge is usually enough time to visit the majority of the main sights, especially if you are visiting during the summer. You’ll need tickets for most of the chapels and university buildings, so go first to buy those.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds Road Trip – 3 day trip from London

Recommended by Ann | The road is life

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. If you look at a map of England, find Bristol (west coast, just below the indent of southern Wales) and the Cotswolds is the area north-east of Bristol.

There is so much beauty and fascinating history to discover around the Cotswolds region and luckily you don’t have to travel far from London to get there! You can reach Bath or Bristol easily in a day from London, but we recommend at least 3 days to really explore the area by car/ motorhome, plus explore Stonehenge and Salisbury on the way back to London. If you’re travelling with children, don’t worry- there’s plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds with kids.

Highlights & Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds and Surrounding Area

• Explore the charming stone villages of the Cotswolds
• visit the historic city of Bath
• marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
• Indulge in some shopping at Daylesford farm
• stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

When is the best time for a Cotswolds road trip?

Although the Cotswolds can be visited all year, this road trip is best completed in the spring or summer months to ensure warmer and sunnier sightseeing weather.

The days are also longer- allowing you to see more each day. However, unlike Cornwall and Devon, most places to NOT shut during winter, so feel free to explore whenever suits you!

Wiltshire & Cotswolds road trip itinerary from London

• Departing London, drive out to the Cotswolds. This is where you should spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages as you wish to.
• A few of the prettiest Cotswolds villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and so many more! The beauty of the Cotswolds region is that the villages are all located in close proximity with minimal driving time in between them.
• Once you have seen your share of lovely English villages , carry on to Bath which is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit.
• Spend a full day and night in Bath visiting the Roman baths.
• From there continue to Stonehenge. A visit to this incredible ancient site can easily take half a day. We camped overnight at Stonehenge and saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
• From Stonehenge, it’s only a short 20-minute drive to the medieval town of Salisbury which brings you to the final stop of this road trip.
• The highlight of Salisbury is the stunning Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain! Spend one night in Salisbury before making the final 2-hour road trip back to London.
• Another option is to return to London via the historic city of Oxford. Don’t miss a meal in Sticks and Sushi- one of the best restaurants in Oxford and with incredible views over the city.

North England Road Trips- Why You Should Visit

It’s easy when planning an England road trip to get sucked into famous places like Cornwall, Devon or the Cotswolds- and those are all AMAZING places to visit.

However, I strongly encourage you to visit the north of England as well if you have time. You’ll find villages just as pretty, delicious food (chips, pie and gravy is the best thing in the world) and incredible history.

Again, we were lucky to live up here for 4 years- here are some of our absolute favourite places to road trip, although there are of course many more we have yet to discover! I hope they give you some ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Don’t forget to Grab your ULTIMATE road trip planner here – it has everything you need to help you pack for your road trip.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District is a huge and stunning area in Derbyshire, just to the east of Manchester. It’s a perfect place for a road trip because there are so many things to see!

A car or motorhome makes it easy to travel between the sites and there are plenty of campsites or hotels to use as you explore.

There are a multitude of hikes, walks and tors to climb and the area is famous for its caves, which people still lived in as recently as 1910!

The Peak District was the UK’s first National Park and is also considered the real ale capital of the world! If you’re exploring the Peak District with kids , there are steam trains, tramways, cycle paths and even a cable car taking you up to see some stunning views! There’s also Alton Towers theme park – one of the best in the UK.

Best places to explore in the Peak District

Some of the highlights include:

• Chatsworth House
• Ladybower reservoir
• Alton Towers theme park
• Heights of Abraham cable car

Lake District road trip

Recommended by Fiona/ Passport & Piano

The Lake District National Park is a UNESCO heritage site that makes for the perfect road trip.  Walking around the lakes and fells to see the magnificent scenery is one of the many pleasures of the area.

Quintessential villages are plentiful as are traditional English pubs with real ale and hearty food. Don’t just rush by on your way from England to Scotland; take a few days and enjoy all that the lakes have to offer.

Best places to visit on a Lake District Road Trip

Most people arrive from the south via Windermere, but to explore the areas hidden gems its worth spending at least three days here. The Lake District has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must.

In the South Lakes, I’d highly recommend a  visit to Grasmere . Here you can visit several homes of the famous poet William Wordsworth and enjoy Sarah Nelson’s delightful gingerbread.

If you love Beatrix Potter, you can follow in her footsteps at Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere.  Her home near Hawkshead is open to visitors, and Wray Castle is a beautiful spot where she enjoyed her family holidays.

In the North Lakes, the towns of Keswick and Cockermouth have plenty to explore. The Castlerigg stone circle, with its stunning views across the fells, is worth stopping at, and the “Surprise View” across Derwent Water is spectacular.

If you’re not exploring in a motorhome or campervan, accommodation throughout the area is plentiful. There are boat rides and water-based activities to enjoy on most of the lakes and a plethora of outdoor pursuit centres for the more adventurous.

When is the best time for a Lake District road trip?

In the summer months, the National Park can be rather busy particularly on the main A66 road which runs through the centre. Hence if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

While you’re not guaranteed sunshine at any time of the year, the weather is probably at its best between April and September.

England Road Trip- Yorkshire & The Dales

Recommended by Sinead | Map Made Memories

England’s largest county, Yorkshire, is a perfect destination for a road trip. There are so many diverse attractions to see within a relatively short drive of each other.

Highlights and some best places in Yorkshire to visit

• Hardraw Force–England’s highest single-drop waterfall
• White Scar–The longest show cave in England
• Visit the ‘Best Street in Britain’
• Visit the cobbled Shambles, named ‘the Best Street in Britain’.
• Marvel at the Ribblehead Viaduct, the 24 arches that span the Yorkshire Dales, a true masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
• Castles and ruins all over the place
• Stand on Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

Start your road trip in the rolling hills and river valleys of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or descend underground to marvel at the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Clamber over Brimham Rocks or hike the stunning landscape around Malham Cove. Browse the independent shops in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.

Places to visit on the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are packed with attractive waterfalls. Choose between the plunging falls around Ingleton, popular Aysgarth Falls or, my favourite waterfall, Hardraw Force which is England’s highest single drop waterfall. Before leaving the Dales, visit the impressive monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Continue your road trip by exploring the historic city of York . This compact city is easily navigated on foot and is an ideal location for history buffs. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day!

See the iconic York Minster, walk the city’s medieval city walls and stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has been voted the ‘ Best Street in Britain’ and was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the movie adaptation of the Harry Potter series!

Road trip over the Yorkshire Moors

End your Yorkshire road trip with a drive across the wild Yorkshire Moors. Take a scenic trip on a steam train across the Moors to visit charming Goathland train station which doubled as Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies. Alternatively, your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

How long should you spend exploring Yorkshire on a road trip?

You could ‘cover’ Yorkshire in a couple of days but to truly appreciate all it has to offer I would recommend at least one full week.

When is the best time to road trip to Yorkshire?

Yorkshire can be explored all year around- and expect rain at any time! But Spring is incredible on the moors- with the wildflowers blooming and the days getting longer, it’s a perfect time to visit. Autumn also offers spectacular views with the leaves turning colour, providing an incredible backdrop.

England Road Trip Idea – North East Coast

Northern England’s east coast is full of charming towns and villages, and is the perfect destination for a road trip.

Best places to visit on a North East coast England road trip

• Saltburn-by-the-Sea (to search for fossils)
• Lemon top ice-cream – Its legacy goes back over 100 years!)
• Staithes- picturesque fishing village
• Whitby Abbey – the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula
• Robin Hood’s Bay (where smuggling was commonplace
• Scarborough Castle

North East England road trip itinerary

Start in Saltburn-by-the-sea. Be sure to search for fossils throughout your visit. I actually found one in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, but you can get lucky in any of the places on this list! Saltburn-by-the-Sea is home to the historic Saltburn Cliff Tramway and affords beautiful views from the bluffs above town.

You can walk along The Cleveland Way, a historic trail that runs through each of the 5 locations mentioned. I’d also recommend trying Lemon Top Ice Cream, or vanilla ice cream with a dollop of lemon sorbet on top.

Staithes is a quaint fishing village laden with narrow pathways and quirky cottages.

The Whitby Abbey towers above the town, giving it an eerie feeling – it’s even credited as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula!

Robin Hood’s Bay has a long history with smugglers, and its red rooftops and crowded buildings conceal hidden routes. In Scarborough, you can enjoy rides at the Luna Park amusement park or visit the historic Scarborough Castle!

When is the best time to road trip England’s north-east coast?

Although you can visit this area all year round, I’d suggest visiting in the summer or fall. It rains much of the year in this region of England, but there’s a higher likelihood of sunshine from July through October.

How long to spend on this England Road trip?

You can complete this road trip in less than 2 hours, but I’d suggest spending at least a few days exploring the region. Each Yorkshire coastal town has its own charm and activities to offer, so you certainly don’t want to rush!

How far is it from the North east coast to London?

Scarborough to London takes about 5 hours by car. Avoid travelling Friday afternoons or Monday morning- those are the peak road traffic times.

Don’t miss Durham

We spent a lovely couple of days exploring the city of Durham. There are so many wonderful places to explore, but one of the highlights for us was Durham Cathedral. This incredible building was built in the 11th Century and is the largest surviving stone vaulted ceiling of its size.

However, if I’m honest, I was more excited by the fact that several scenes in Harry Potter were filmed here, including in the cloisters and many of the covered walkways.

It was also in Durham Cathedral that Harry, Ron and Hermione encounter ‘Fluffy’- the forbidden corridor was also part of the cathedral.

Other fantastic things to see in or near Durham include:

• Durham Castle
• High Force Waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in Europe )
• Finchale Priory

Northumberland Coast

Recommended by Tracy | Travels in Time

The Northumberland Coastal route stretches for over 35 miles from Alnmouth in the south to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in the north.

The drive takes you through an area of outstanding natural beauty with many beautiful villages and places of interest to visit along the way.

How long to spend on a Northumberland coast road trip

This itinerary covers a day trip but you could spend a few days exploring the area or even walk the Northumberland Coastal Path along the same route if you are feeling up to it!

Northumberland road trip itinerary

The first village to visit is Craster – famous for its kippers and overlooked by Dunstanburgh Castle. If you’re looking for impressive castles in England , Northumberland is the place to go- there are more castles here than any other county in England!

After exploring Craster and the castle, head to Seahouses. A popular seaside town for families with lots of arcades and fish and chip shops this is the place to stop for a bite to eat.

If the weather is good why not hop on a boat over to the Farme Islands? With large colonies of seals and puffins the islands are popular with nature lovers.

Bamburgh Castle dominates the horizon and is worth exploring. It was once the home to the Royal Seat of the Kings of Northumbria and also has a ghost or two!

After Bamburgh head to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Make sure you check the tides before you go- the island is tidal and is only accessible during certain times.

Once on the island take a stroll up to the castle. Don’t miss exploring the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. This is the place famous as the home of Christianity in England until Viking raids eventually led to the abandonment of the priory.

When is the best time for a Northumberland road trip?

The best time to visit Northumberland and places in North East England is in the summer – the days are long and the sun will hopefully be shining! Be aware that on occasions during the summer a sea fret (mist) can hang over the coast and cool temperatures and decrease visibility. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.

Wow- anyone else want to jump in their motorhome/ camper/ car/ bike and head off to start exploring? What a fantastic list of England road trip destinations!

As you can see, it really doesn’t matter where you go or how long you have to explore England- you’ll have plenty of places to enjoy. And who knows- next time we set off for Norfolk, we might even make it there without swinging by Cornwall first!! 🙂

Planning an England road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to plan an epic UK road trip
• How to create a road trip itinerary with Google Maps
• 100 best road trip driving songs
• How to plan a motorhome trip to UK or Europe

See all our UK travel ideas and tips

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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Cornwall is such a beautiful part of the UK to visit in a motorhome, although it can be a little tight around those country roads.

So true- some of those roads are tiny, but worth it for the incredible views and places to visit.

Have you been on the welsh coast much

Our very first motorhome trip EVER was to the Welsh coast. We’ve put together some of our favourite Welsh road trips here if you want some ideas: https://wandering-bird.com/wales-road-trip/

Although all road trips are lovely, I particularly enjoy traveling in a campervan through Devon in the UK. I appreciate you sharing this list of road trip suggestions.

Fantastic article for anyone travelling England on a road trip

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The best road trips from London that take 2 hours or less

Editor's note: This story has been updated with new information.

With an ever-increasing range of car rental options, a day trip out of town is easy to plan. But with time so precious, we don't want to spend all day in the car.

From historic cities, national parks and seaside scenes, you won't even have time to play "I spy." Here are some ideas for your next London road trip — all in under two hours from central London — and some inspiration on where to have lunch while you're there.

Never miss a thing by subscribing to our daily newsletter .

Before you set off, don't forget to check the best credit cards to use for car rental. When you are road-trip planning, make sure you avoid the London Congestion Charge zone.

Related: 7 of the best road trips around the UK

Distance from London: 35 miles (around an hour).

Marlow and the Home Counties are really close by with plenty of things to do. Marlow is right on the river, so start by crossing Grade I-listed Marlow Bridge and go for a stroll along the Thames Path to spot wildlife (and the occasional rowing boat) on the river. After that, check out The High Street and venture on a blue plaque-hunting escapade. Look hard enough and you will find the building that TS Eliot called home during World War I and the house where Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein. Car parking can be a little tricky especially at lunchtime, but Liston Court Car Park lets you park for up to six hours for $5.

Where to have lunch : Marlow is a Michelin-star mecca but just a few miles away is Hurley House Hotel where there is a smorgasbord of lunch options from sushi to steak. And there's a lovely outdoor terrace and garden with weekend BBQs.

2. Stonehenge

Distance from London: 90 miles (just under two hours).

If I didn't live in London, I would live in Bath . But that's over our two-hour threshold. So instead, a day trip to Stonehenge is called for, especially as the summer solstice draws ever closer. From London, it's an easy drive down the M3 to this 5,000-year-old Wiltshire stone circle. Stonehenge remains a truly remarkable relic of the prehistoric world — older than the Great Pyramids and still largely a mystery. On average, a visit to Stonehenge takes around two hours, so if you have time, head over to the Army Flying Museum on the way back to London, which tells you about the journey of British soldiers in the air from the pioneering days of balloons and kites right through to the modern chapter of helicopter operations.

Where to have lunch : The Stonehenge Inn is the closest pub to Stonehenge and even hosts a mini-Stonehenge, an exact replica of the great monument. Here you can expect classic pub grub and also a pizza kitchen.

3. The New Forest

Distance from London: 84 miles (just under two hours).

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to a safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath, you'll be watched by ponies that have grazed there for thousands of years with cattle and pigs casually hovering up fallen acorns. Every July to September, the New Forest open-top bus tour is a hop-on, hop-off experience with three different routes. You can even bring your bikes and (well-behaved) dogs along.

Where to have lunch : New Forest pubs are an important part of the area's heritage. The Pilgrim Inn is what Londoners imagine a country pub to be with a thatched roof, roaring log fires and a cozy dining room for lazy lunches.

4. Mersea Island

Distance from London: 59 miles (1.5 hours).

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods at high tide, this island getaway is great if you love water. Mersea Island has beach huts, ice cream, windsurfers and lots of boats. A boat trip around the harbor from the Causeway Jetty on Coast Road will show you the local sights from the water. Mersea Island's sometimes sunny south-facing beach looking over the Blackwater Estuary and is a curious a mix of sand and shingle but has great views. If you visit Mersea at the end of August you could also pop into the Clacton Airshow, which is free and includes a good mixture of activities from The Red Arrows to historic aircraft shows.

Where to have lunch : The big draw is The Company Shed , which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It doesn't take bookings, and it's open for takeaway only at the moment. Get there before midday to feast on local oysters, prawns and dressed crab. Talking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is fun and it's free. Just watch out for those crab claws!

5. Whitstable

Distance from London: 60 miles (1.5 hours).

The Kent coast is dotted with picture-perfect towns like Margate and Deal, but Whitstable is really pretty with its pastel-painted beach huts and thriving arts scene. Explore Whitstable's arty side with a wander round its galleries including the Fishslab Gallery , which used to the local Fishmonger. Whitstable's historic Harbor Street is a must-visit for every day-tripper who comes, followed by The Harbor Market to pick up curious knick-knacks and furniture with character.

Where to have lunch : The Lobster Shack is a local favorite, famous for local oysters and live shellfish. With beach views and lots of outdoor seating, it's the place for people-watching in the summer and getting cozy by the log burner in colder times. Bookings are not accepted.

6. Leeds Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover

Distance from London: 43 miles (one hour) to Leeds Castle then 39 miles (45 minutes) to the White Cliffs of Dover.

Staying in glorious Kent, this two-stop day trip starts at Leeds Castle (not in Leeds), which is picturesquely placed in the middle of a lake surrounded on all sides by forests and parklands. Stroll through the Lady Baillie Gardens before a quick drive to the truly iconic White Cliffs of Dover . A symbol of home, hope and freedom, their dazzling white chalk faces reach 350 feet. Also look out for two herds of resilient Exmoor ponies whose mission is to graze away to keep the coarse grasses, bushes and trees at bay so that the chalk grassland of the cliffs can thrive.

Where to have lunch: Meander 10 miles up the Kentish coast from the gorgeous cliffs to the village of St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe where you will find The White Cliffs Hotel Bunkhouse Kitchen Bar . Here you can expect a proper Kentish experience with Folkstone fish, foraged herbs and home cultivated ice creams.

Bottom line

We do love London — most of the time. It just so happens that it's also conveniently located in the middle of a bunch of great road-trip destinations, all under two hours away by car. So jump in the car, get your sat nav out and away you go.

9 top road trips to see the best of England

Jul 17, 2023 • 8 min read

Jump in the car and hit the road with one of these great road trips through England © Photos by R A Kearton / Getty Images

Hiring a car and driving through gorgeous English landscapes, visiting quaint villages and epic castles is a highlight of a trip to England  no matter the season.

Roads are well maintained, although you may be caught out by the occasional pothole. Off the main roads you can meander down narrow lanes of hedgerows and stop to watch the sun set or a bird of prey gliding in the sky above.

Here are nine of the best road-trip routes across the country, from a loop around Cornwall in the southwest, all the way north to a coastal jaunt right to the border with Scotland. The distances provided are not direct between the start and end points. Instead we assume plenty of diversions from the main route so you can explore more of each region.

1. Following Hadrian's Wall

Best road trip for rugged landscapes and Roman history Newcastle – Carlise; 127km (79 miles), allow three to four days

Traversing the island's narrow neck, you'll encounter the extraordinary feat of engineering of Hadrian's Wall first-hand. Every Roman mile (0.95 miles) had a gateway guarded by a small fort (milecastle), with two observation turrets between them, and many of these remain. A series of southern forts, which may predate the wall, were developed as bases, and 16 lie astride it.

Preserved remains and intriguing museums punctuate the route, along with easily accessible remnants of the 1900-year-old wall. Start in the Newcastle suburb of Wallsend at Segedunum , marking the last strong post of the wall. Follow the route west, stopping to explore on the way. Be sure to include the superbly preserved Roman cavalry fort at Chesters Roman Fort and Museum , and enjoy the views over the wall and the moors of Northumberland National Park at Housesteads Roman Fort and Museum .

Local tip:  The interactive Housesteads Roman Fort & Museum showcases objects once belonging to Roman soldiers and includes a mini-cinema that takes visitors on a journey to the past.

2. The historic south

Best road trip for English history and culture London – Oxford; 720km (450 miles), allow seven to 10 days

England's rich heritage runs like a glittering seam through this remarkable multiday road trip across the south. Romantic  Leeds Castle  alone is worthy of a full day, before stopping at the historic city of Canterbury  with its World Heritage–listed Gothic cathedral. The quaint medieval settlement of Rye  is a delight, with cobbled alleyways and stories of smugglers.

Brighton , a lively coastal city with superb nightlife, is next on the route, followed by Portsmouth, where you can learn all about the city's nautical heritage at the historic docks . Cathedral lovers will be further overjoyed by stops in Winchester  and Salisbury to marvel at their majestic medieval spires, before traveling onwards to the fascinating archaeological sites at  Stonehenge and Avebury . Drive on to soak up the Georgian cityscape in Bath , Churchill's palace and Oxford 's spires. 

3. Cornwall's coast

Best road trip for scenery Bude – Fowey; 333km (207 miles), allow 10 days

Buckle up, roll down the windows and have the camera ready – there can be few corners of Britain where scenery packs such an eyes-wide, heart-in-the-mouth, jaw-on-the-floor punch as Cornwall . This unforgettable adventure travels top-to-bottom, coast-to-coast, starting from the breezy seaside town of Bude and following the coastline all the way down, round and back up again to Fowey.

Along the way you'll encounter sparkling beaches , surf bays and seaside ports galore, as well as curiosities such as a clifftop castle steeped in Arthurian legend, a theater built into the granite rocks, the wonderful St Michael's Mount , and a trio of space-age biomes at the Eden Project . It's wild and wonderful out west, as you're about to find out.

4. The Jurassic coast

Best road trip for a memorable family holiday  Poole – Lyme Regis; 145km (90 miles), allow seven days

One of the west’s best drives, this route rolls up chalk ridges, through thatched villages and along sea-fringed roads. History is everywhere, from fairy-tale castles to an art-packed quarry .

Prepare for the pick of Dorset ’s sights and sea-view sunsets as you keep heading west. Fall in love with the romantic hilltop ruins of Corfe Castle  and take a dip in Lulworth Cove before hiking over to the stunning Durdle Door arch. Little ones are likely to love a visit to the Monkey World sanctuary in Wareham or the 29km (18-mile) stretch of pebbles at Chesil Beach, and they may well be fascinated by the fossils that can be found in Lyme Regis.

5. The Cotswolds

Best road trip for quintessential England Bath – Stratford-upon-Avon; 240km (149 miles), seven to eight days

From the less-traveled, superbly pretty villages of the southwestern Cotswolds to the impossibly beautiful gold-colored streets of the classic northern Cotswolds, this trip threads through the core of one of England's most desirable regions.

Glimpse Georgian grandeur in Bath, marvel at Painswick's sleepy beauty, and unearth Roman history in Cirencester. You'll want to stop in picturesque Bibury to admire the gorgeous cluster of riverside cottages , before strolling Chipping Campden's honey-hued lanes and wrapping up in dramatic Tudor style at Stratford-upon-Avon , home of the illustrious Bard, William Shakespeare.

Detour:  Roughly 1.6km (1 mile) apart and 5.6km (3.5 miles) southwest of Stow-on-the-Wold, the picture-postcard villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter have managed to maintain their unhurried medieval charm. Their names have nothing to do with abattoirs; they come from the Old English sloughtre , meaning slough or muddy place.

6. The Lake District

Best road trip for the great outdoors Windermere – Ullswater; 260km (162 miles); allow five days

William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Beatrix Potter are just a few of the literary luminaries who have fallen in love with the Lake District . It's been a national park since 1951 and is studded by England's highest hills (fells), including the highest of all, Scafell Pike. This drive takes in lakes, forest, hills and valleys, with country houses, hill walks and cozy pubs thrown in for good measure.

Highlights include visiting Wordsworth's former homes in Grasmere, walking through the classic Lakeland valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere, admiring the wild landscapes and England's highest mountain in Wasdale and driving Hardknott Pass, the district's steepest road pass. At a 30% gradient in some places, with precious few passing places on the narrow, single-file road, it's absolutely not for the faint-hearted or nervous drivers. 

Planning tip:  Motorways and main A-roads deliver you quickly from one end of the country to another. Lesser A-roads, B-roads and minor roads are much more scenic – ideal for car or motorcycle touring. If you or your children get travel sick, you've been warned: these roads are twisty. 

7. The Midlands

Best road trip for battlefields, castles and stately homes  Nottingham – Lincoln; 344km (214 miles); allow five days

This grand tour begins with famed Nottingham Castle and ends with similarly famed Lincoln Castle , stopping at the mighty fortress of Warwick Castle en route. In between you'll see Bosworth Battlefield , where Richard III became the last English king to die in battle, and learn the extraordinary story of the 2012 discovery of his long-lost remains in a city car park.

You'll also stop at wonderful stately homes, such as lavish Burghley House , the Tudor mansion at Sulgrave Manor  and Althorp House , the final resting place of Princess Diana. In each, take time to wander the opulent corridors, the magnificently landscaped gardens and the wider estates, some with free-roaming deer.

8. The North York Moors and Yorkshire coast

Best road trip for windswept moorlands York – Robin Hood's Bay; 140km (87 miles), allow four to five days

This varied tour takes in ancient architecture, wild moorland scenery, picture-postcard villages (complete with steam trains!) and a classic seaside resort…with macabre literary connections. The Blakey Ridge road out of Hutton-le-Hole just keeps climbing and climbing, leaving behind the medieval city of York and the aristocratic splendor of Castle Howard to enter a world of windswept heather moorland, wandering sheep, lonely stone crosses and ancient footpaths.

Stop in Malton, a Yorkshire food haven, and then the bustling fishing harbor of Whitby , with its Gothic abbey and links to Bram Stoker's Dracula . End your road trip in Robin Hood's Bay, one of the prettiest spots on the Yorkshire coast.

Detour: Get transported back to 9th-century "Jorvik" (the Viking name for York) at the multimedia Jorvik Viking Centre, where history is brought to life with a smells-and-all reconstruction of the Viking settlement unearthed here during excavations in the late 1970s.

9. Historic Northumbria 

Best road trip for untamed coastline  Newcastle – Berwick-upon-Tweed; 182km (113 miles), allow three to four days

This drive along northeast England's stirring coastline from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Berwick-upon-Tweed on the Scottish border runs through the historic medieval kingdom of Northumbria, passing long, desolate beaches, wind-battered castles and magical islands. 

Newcastle is renowned for its culture and nightlife. Stop by the iconic Angel of the North sculpture a few miles south of the city before taking the road north to nearby Tynemouth, where you'll find one of the best surf spots in England at a Blue Flag beach, overlooked by the ruins of a Benedictine priory .

Once you hit the open road the pace drops down several gears – wild and remote, this area is sparsely populated. Along the way you'll encounter incredible birdlife in Amble, where you can visit a puffin colony, and fresh-as-it-gets seafood hauled in at traditional fishing ports. Alnwick is a lovely historic town with an  impressive castle that starred as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies, and  Bamburgh  has the region's most dramatic clifftop castle.

Further north, the road takes you by Holy Island, or Lindisfarne , a tiny otherworldly spot linked to the mainland by a narrow causeway at low tide. 

This article was first published Mar 18, 2021 and updated Jul 17, 2023.

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Doing a London to Wales road trip? Take the scenic route

By Kerry Walker

Tell people that you’re driving the slow road from London to Wales and you might get a raised eyebrow. After all, you can floor it down the motorway and cross the Severn Bridge in three hours on a clear run. But where’s the fun in that?

In the mad dash to get to the coast and mountains, we miss so much: river-veined valleys and hilltops with heart-hammering views, dashingly romantic castles and prehistoric standing stones, grand manors ripe for bodice-ripping period dramas and pubs with real ales, inglenook fireplaces and beams so medievally low you knock your head against them.

The pandemic has seen road trips reborn and maps redrawn as we reassess what travel means. We’ve pieced together this unhurried drive to shine a light on beauty beyond the hard shoulder. You can revel in butterscotch-coloured villages, country estates and Michelin-starred restaurants before there’s even a whisper of the woody-hilled loveliness of the Wye Valley . Allow a weekend or, even better, a week to do it justice.

Colne Valley Regional Park and the Chiltern Hills

Countryside like this on London’s doorstep – who knew? Your first stop is the Colne Valley Regional Park, a lush spread of woodlands and fens, with strolls, bike and boat rides along the Grand Union Canal. At Denham visitor centre, hook onto a four-mile circular walk along the towpaths of the canal, keeping an eye out for kingfishers and herons.

Swinging north-west brings you to the chalky Chiltern Hills for muddy-boot walks through fields and sunlit beech, along bridleways and over streams to market towns, villages and many a cracking country pub . Stop off at dinky Watlington, said to be Britain’s smallest town, full of flint-built, thatched-roof charm. Red kites wheel above the open grassland at Watlington Hill, across expansive views of the Oxfordshire Plain. Just south, windmill-topped Turville (of Vicar of Dibley fame) merits a stop, as does Tudor country manor Greys Court and its wisteria-draped gardens.

Where to sleep and eat

For nouveau-rustic pub glamour, head to the 18th-century Mash Inn , with its wonky beams, flagstones and sweeping views, where chef Jon Parry elevates locally sourced and foraged ingredients on a wood-fired grill. Or – providing you’ve booked months ahead – swerve north for a little Raymond Blanc magic at two-Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons .

North Wessex Downs and Avebury

The Chilterns ease ever so gently into the North Wessex Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where meadows, chalk downs and beech woods unfurl. Here, the horizons are wider, the skies bigger and the crowds smaller.

Sarah James

Anna Prendergast

Condé Nast Traveller

Connor Sturges

Few sights are as riveting as the Uffington White Horse, which has been trotting across these slopes since the Bronze Age – making it Britain’s oldest prehistoric chalk hill figure. Reach it on foot across the downs and through woodland for the full impact. Tag on a mile’s walk west on the Ridgeway to reach Wayland’s Smithy, an impressive Neolithic chambered long barrow.

From here, cruise along B-roads south to Highclere Castle (the real Downton Abbey ) for a peek at its opulent staterooms, grounds and Egyptian exhibition. Then it’s back behind the wheel for the short drive west to the ancient, trail-woven Savernake Forest south of Marlborough, to see Capability Brown’s Grand Avenue of beeches and the 1,100-year-old Big Belly Oak.

Driving west throws you in at the prehistoric deep end – you can barely put your finger on the map without knocking down a standing stone around Avebury . Stonehenge’s lesser-known, more soulful sister is home to the largest stone circle in the world, with a diameter of 1,090ft. Stroll in contemplative silence around the space, then walk cross-country to the green hump of Silbury Hill, Europe’s largest artificial mound, dating back to about 2400 BC.

For an affordable stay, cosy hangout The Rectory in the village of Crudwell is a crowd-pleasing option, and has a brilliant restaurant.

The Rick Stein restaurant brings the flavours and seafood of Cornwall to his Marlborough outpost. South of Highclere, the Watership Down Inn is the country-pub dream, with a produce-driven menu, local ales and crisply designed rooms named after the characters in its namesake novel.

Bath and the Cotswolds

With its lovely architecture and Roman baths taking you back to a more graceful era, World Heritage Site Bath provides a shot of culture before the scenic drive north through the Cotswolds . The city has just received its second UNESCO status as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. Take a dip in its healing mineral waters high above the rooftops at Thermae Bath Spa, picture the bath-loving Georgian gentry frolicking in its Roman Baths, have tea at the Pump Room and waft around the Royal Crescent in 18th-century style.

Mr Top Gear himself, Jeremy Clarkson, lives in the Cotswolds, where back roads spin together some of Britain’s loveliest countryside in a fantasy of honey-blonde villages that look as though they’ve been preserved in medieval aspic. Don’t rush the journey north: you’ll want time for incredibly pretty Castle Combe, which is pure film-set stuff with its 500-year-old weavers’ cottages, packhorse bridges and ancient beech woods.

Don’t miss the Victorian botanical splendour of Westonbirt ( The National Arboretum ), Gothic-revival Woodchester Mansion and fanciful Painswick Rococo Garden on the drive north.

Book Lucknam Park , a Palladian mansion set in 500 acres of wooded parkland, with a spa, horse riding, croquet and Michelin-starred Restaurant Hywel Jones.

Wye Valley and Wales

Things take a turn for the wilder as you cross the River Severn and dive into the trail-veined Forest of Dean, where the ageless oak, sweet-chestnut and beech woods were once the royal hunting grounds of Tudor kings. The final leg of the road trip twists through the Wye Valley , the back door to Wales , which enthralled Romantic poets and painters. Walk a stretch of Offa’s Dyke, crossing borders over moor and mountain, or dally in forests cloaked in bluebells in spring and russet-gold foliage in autumn.

Handsomely medieval Goodrich Castle has stirring views from its battlements. Driving on south leads to Symonds Yat, where you can canoe along the winding, high-banked river, or hike up to the limestone outcrop of Symonds Yat Rock and its Iron Age hillfort for glimpses of goshawks, buzzards and peregrine falcons. Pretty market town Monmouth breaks up the journey south to the thrilling Gothic ruins of Tintern Abbey that enchanted a paintbrush-wielding Turner. For a view on high, trudge up to the Devil’s Pulpit, which sent Wordsworth into poetic raptures in Lines Written a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey.

Famous for its starring role in Sex Education , The Chalet in Symonds Yat has gorgeous Wye Valley views, but you’ll need to be super-organised and book months ahead. The Tudor Farmhouse is a rural retreat on a 13th-century farm or glamp in one of the cute, old-school wooden cabins at Tintern’s Hop Garden. There are some fabulous places to eat in these parts – book the The Pig and Apple for gourmet burgers on Kate Humble’s farm near Monmouth, and outstanding Michelin-starred The Whitebrook , headed up by Chris Harrod.

The onward drive to the coast

If the Wye Valley has whetted your appetite for more, drive deeper into Wales. From Monmouth, it’s just a short hop west to the Brecon Beacons National Park, where bracing hikes over the moor, through the woods and up to bare, fin-shaped peaks await. Heading an hour south of here brings you to the fabulous dune-flanked beaches of Gower, while driving the same distance west takes you to the sublime coves, cliffs, coastal walks and puffin-filled islands of Pembrokeshire .

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Road Trip From London To The Cotswolds – One Week Itinerary

Driving through the scenic countryside of England is an excellent way to escape the city and experience English culture and history. If you’re spending some time in London and looking to see some nearby attractions, this is the perfect itinerary for you!

This one week road trip from London runs in a loop and takes you through some of England’s most iconic landmarks and prettiest little villages .

You will spend a few days exploring the highlights of the stunning Cotswolds region , walk through the historic cities of Bath and Oxford, see the ancient site of Stonehenge and finish off the road trip with a visit to the incredible Salisbury Cathedral.

This will be an unforgettable week of discovering England’s most fascinating history while passing through some of the country’s most breath-taking landscapes.

The gorgeous Manor House in Castle Combe

This road trip from London can be done at any time of the year, we did it in November and we had a lovely time. Yes, it was a little chilly but nothing that a roaring fire inside of a medieval pub can’t fix! The spring and summer months will be much busier as the warmer weather naturally attracts more tourists.

No matter when you choose to go, this driving route is truly beautiful in every season. We had such an incredible time on this road trip and feel that it deserves a spot on everyone’s UK bucket list !

Table of Contents

Road Trip From London Overview

Stratford-upon-avon, stow-on-the-wold, lower slaughter, bourton-on-the-water, castle combe.

Cute cottages in the charming village of Bibury

Recommended Itinerary

Day One – Depart London in the morning and drive to Oxford. Spend the rest of the day seeing the highlights of Oxford.

Night One – Oxford

Day Two – Depart Oxford and drive to Shakespeare’s birth town, Stratford-upon-Avon. Spend the rest of the day exploring the town.

Night Two – Stratford-upon-Avon

Day Three – Depart Stratford-upon-Avon in the morning and drive to the first Cotswolds village, Stow-on-the-Wold. Spend some time checking out the town before continuing to Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Night Three – Bourton-on-the-Water

Day Four – Start the day with a drive to the village of Bibury to see the famous Arlington Row and stop for tea at the lovely Swan Hotel. Continue your Cotswolds road trip to the gorgeous little village of Castle Combe. Spend the afternoon in the village before driving to Bath.

Exploring the city of Bath

Night Four – Bath

Day Five – Spend the full day seeing the highlights of Bath.

Night Five – Bath

Day Six – Depart Bath in the morning and make your way to Stonehenge, spend a few hours at the stones before continuing to Salisbury. See the Salisbury Cathedral and other attractions in the afternoon.

Night Six – Salisbury

Day Seven – Drive back to London

Total Driving Time / Distance Covered

7.5 – 8 hours / 323 miles – Give or take depending on traffic and chosen driving route

Road Trip From London Highlights

• Discover the history and amazing architecture in the famous university city of Oxford
• Visit the medieval village of Stratford-upon-Avon, known as Shakespeare’s birthplace
• Transport to another era as you wander through the fairy-tale Cotswolds villages
• See the incredible Roman Baths in the beautiful city of Bath
• Marvel at the mysterious ancient stone circle at Stonehenge
• Take a walk through the majestic Salisbury Cathedral

Taking in the wonder of Stonehenge

The Best Travel Insurance for Your England Road Trip

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The Ultimate One Week Road Trip From London

Car rental in london.

The first thing you should do before departing on this road trip from London is arrange your car rental. To book a car, we recommend using this comparison tool to easily search between all providers. We use this website for pretty much all car rentals in every country we visit as they have a large selection of providers with reasonable prices and no booking fees.

Pick up your car first thing in the morning and then begin the 1:15 hr drive from London to Oxford.

The city of Oxford is packed full of amazing history and plenty of beautiful architecture. It’s home to the oldest university in the English speaking world, the University of Oxford which dates back to the 12th century. Oxford is often referred to as “the city of dreaming spires” because of the university’s many towers that dominate the city’s skyline.

Besides strolling along the high street of the medieval town centre and browsing a few of the shops along the way, there are a few things to do in Oxford that you shouldn’t miss on your visit!

Oxford University

Highlights of Oxford

University of Oxford – Take a 2-hr guided walking tour to see the famous sites of Oxford University. An experienced guide will take you through the university’s complex to see one of the Harry Potter filming sites, the Bodleian Library and the Divinity School. Find tour prices and availability .

Radcliffe Camera – No visit to Oxford is complete without seeing this iconic circular building. What was originally built as a library in the 18th century is now one of the most photographed buildings in all of Oxford. You are only permitted to enter the Radcliffe Camera on a guided tour, but it’s worth checking out even if you just admire from the outside.

Oxford Castle & Prison – Discover the rich and fascinating history of Oxford Castle & Prison on a guided tour lead by a costumed guide. The tour includes: climbing the oldest tower in Oxford to see panoramic views from the top, descending into the 900+ year old crypt, hearing the many stories of the crazy events that unfolded over the centuries from an informative guide and so much more! Find tour prices and availability .

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace – A 20 minute drive from Oxford will take you to this gorgeous countryside manor surrounded by stunning gardens and beautiful landscapes. Blenheim Palace is known as the birthplace of Winston Churchill. It’s conveniently located along the drive from Oxford to Stratford-upon-Avon , making it easy to stop in for a visit.

Medieval Pubs – Oxford has many historic pubs to check out around the town centre. We had lunch at the oldest pub in Oxford, The Bear Inn . The interior is very small and cosy but it’s full of medieval charm and definitely worth stopping at for lunch or drinks. Here are some more old pubs to check out: Turf Tavern, The Eagle and Child, The Trout Inn.

Where to stay in Oxford

Bear and Ragged Staff –  If you’re hoping to stay somewhere with some character and history, you can’t go wrong here. Located just outside of the city, this charming old property offers free parking and delicious home-made food. There’s a cosy bar with a big fireplace which is perfect if you’re visiting during the cold months.

Malmaison Oxford – Once a Victorian prison and now a gorgeous boutique hotel in the heart of Oxford. This highly rated, unique property features tastefully decorated rooms, beautiful architecture, 2 bars and breakfast included. Parking is available on site at an extra cost.

Old Parsonage Hotel – A stunning building dating back to 1660, only a 5 minute walk from Oxford city centre. This lovely hotel features modern rooms in an old setting, free parking, a restaurant & bar and an excellent breakfast (which costs extra).

►Browse more accommodation options in Oxford◄

Exploring Oxford’s High Street

The Bear Inn, Oxford

Radcliffe Camera, Oxford

Take a step back in time to the 16th century when Shakespeare himself once roamed these very streets. Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming English market town full of well-preserved Tudor style architecture located along the banks of the Avon River.

It’s most commonly known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, so naturally you can expect to find all things dedicated to the famous playwright around the town.

Highlights of Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare’s Birthplace – It wouldn’t be a trip to Stratford without a visit inside Shakespeare’s birth home, after all it is the most popular attraction in the town! This iconic half-timbered 16th century building has been preserved incredibly well both inside and out.

The home has been set up with furniture consistent to the time period as well as displays which tell the story of Shakespeare’s childhood and family life in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – A 20 minute walk from the town centre of Stratford is the adorable 600 year old thatched cottage that once belonged to Shakespeare’s wife. It features original furniture, timber framing that dates to the 15th century and is surrounded by the prettiest gardens.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre – Catch one of Shakespeare’s plays live at the riverside Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The layout of the theatre is consistent to Shakespeare’s time, providing an authentic play watching experience.

In addition to showing Shakespeare’s most famous plays, there is also a rooftop restaurant where you can dine with beautiful views over the Avon River. Click here to see upcoming plays and events.

Stratford Butterfly Farm – The UK’s largest tropical butterfly farm is a fun way to break up all of the Shakespeare attractions, especially for families travelling with children.

A few minutes walk from the town centre will take you to see hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies, exotic birds, and various insects.

Tickets to Shakespeare’s family homes: If you plan to visit more than one of the homes associated with Shakespeare’s family, check out this ticket which gives you access to 5 different locations including his birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s cottage.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

Mercure Stratford Upon Avon Shakespeare Hotel – A beautiful 17th century inn featuring oak beamed ceilings and comfortable rooms. It’s centrally located within walking distance to all attractions around Stratford. Breakfast is included and parking is available on site at an extra cost.

Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel – This lovely timber-framed Tudor style manor is only a 5 minute walk from the town centre of Stratford. It has a spa and gym, an award winning restaurant and rooms featuring Tudor style décor.

The Manor Hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for a few extra comforts during your stay in Stratford. Breakfast is included and parking is also available at an extra cost.

The White Swan Hotel – Located in a well preserved historic building, this highly-rated property is a perfect blend of medieval and modern furnishings. It’s a 10 minute walk from the town centre and includes breakfast. Parking is not available on site but there are many options nearby.

►Browse more accommodation options in Stratford-upon-Avon◄

Cotswolds Villages

The Cotswolds ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ is one of the most popular places to visit in England, especially because getting from London to the Cotswolds is an easy drive under 2 hours.

With a concentration of enchanting fairy-tale villages and rolling green hills, driving in the Cotswolds is truly a magical experience. Taking a day tour from London to the Cotswolds is a popular way to visit but to truly take in the beauty of this region, it’s definitely worth spending a bit longer!

The sleepy little villages and slower pace of life in the countryside is certainly a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of London. It’s a place to simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the traditional English villages that appear to be frozen in time.

Take a walk through the countryside, sip a pint in a medieval pub next to a roaring fire, enjoy a high tea in a historic tea room; these are some of the best activities in the Cotswolds !

Strolling through the pretty streets of Castle Combe

Only a short 30 minute drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, this quintessential English market town is the perfect place to start off your tour through the Cotswolds.

Day 3 on the road trip from London is all about exploring the three lovely Cotswolds villages of: Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water. These towns are within very close proximity to one another, making it easy to see them all in one day!

Take some time to browse the cute shops around Stow-on-the-Wold, check out the market square to see the ancient town cross, and pop it to one of the many little tea rooms for some tea and scones.

Before you carry on, make sure to visit the beautiful St. Edward’s Church which is famous for it’s doorway framed by trees.

The tree-framed door of St Edward’s Church

Despite its harsh name, Lower Slaughter certainly makes the list of one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. It’s nestled around the River Eye with picturesque foot bridges and gorgeous little stone cottages.

Lower Slaughter is one of the lesser visited towns compared to the likes of other, more popular Cotswolds villages but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of your time!

Take a stroll along “Copse Hill Road”, which was once named Britain’s most romantic street. It’s not hard to see why as the scenery is so pretty, it’s as though you’ve stepped into a painting.

Along this walk is where you’ll come across the town’s most popular attraction, the Old Mill. Step inside the Old Mill’s museum to learn about it’s history over the centuries and refuel with a bite to eat and some tea in the museum’s cafe.

The picturesque Old Mill, Lower Slaughter

One of the bigger and more popular Cotswolds towns, Bourton-on-the-Water has been named ‘the Venice of the Cotswolds’ because of the many little footbridges that cross over the River Windrush that runs through the town.

One of the best things to in Bourton-on-the-Water is simply taking a scenic stroll along the river, finding perfect photo opportunities as you go. The town is full of cute cafes, tea houses, old pubs and lovely little shops, it’s easy to lose track of time as you wander through the streets.

Check out the Model Village which is a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water built in traditional Cotswolds stone at 1/9th scale of the actual town! This is a fun attraction that doesn’t take too long to get through and something that appeals to all ages.

Another cool thing to see in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Cotswolds Motoring Museum which is home to a big collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, caravans and much more! A must visit for any motor enthusiast.

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

The Lamb Inn – After a full day of exploring the Cotswolds, you’ll need to find a comfortable place to rest your head and The Lamb Inn makes a great choice.

Located only a short drive from Bourton-on-the-Water, this beautiful countryside inn has everything you could ask for. It features free parking, spacious rooms, breakfast included and a nice restaurant serving delicious food!

►Browse more accommodation options in Bourton-on-the-Water◄

The beautiful Cotswolds town of Bourton-on-the-Water

It’s been called one of the most beautiful villages in England , Bibury is no stranger to a crowd. Arlington Row is said to be one of the most photographed scenes in all of England.

This perfect little row of stone houses dates back to the 14th century and is truly like a scene taken straight from a fairy-tale. The buildings were originally used to store wool but were later converted to weaver’s cottages in the 17th century.

Nowadays the buildings that you see are actually inhabited by people, which is important to remember when you’re strolling along snapping photos.

Besides admiring this lovely row of houses, the charming ivy-covered Swan Hotel next to the River Coln makes an excellent place to stop in for a tea break. The historic building was once an 18th century coaching inn and has since been turned into a hotel with a nice restaurant, bar and café.

Arlington Row, Bibury

The Swan Hotel, Bibury

Located in the south end of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is a picturesque little village with traditional honey-coloured stone cottages and a bubbling stream flowing through. This is another village that’s been heavily photographed and it’s not hard to see why.

I really felt like I was walking through the set of a movie, it’s just that perfect (also because it has actually been featured in several movies/TV series!) Castle Combe is quite literally frozen in time as there have been no new buildings constructed in the town since the 17th century.

If you visit Castle Combe during the summer, you will definitely see some tour groups and crowds filling the little streets. But if you go during the winter like I did, you might just be lucky enough to get this fairy-tale village to yourself!

Besides, visiting the Cotswolds at Christmas time only adds to the magic of this place! 

In love with the quaint cottages of Castle Combe!

Besides strolling through the village taking photos around each corner, there are a few things to do here that you shouldn’t miss. Grab a classic English pub lunch at the White Hart or Castle Inn, both historic pubs in the town centre serving tasty food and ales.

Take a walk over to the 14th century Manor House, which is now a luxury hotel with a golf course and a Michelin star restaurant. You can pop inside for afternoon tea or just admire the gorgeous building from the outside and carry on.

Before you drive off to Bath, make sure to walk down the hill from the market square until you reach the bridge. This is the perfect angle to capture the cottages, river and surrounding woodland, and even better if you can get this magical scene all to yourself!

The fairy-tale village of Castle Combe

An easy 30 minute drive from Castle Combe will bring you to the charming city of Bath. Rich in history that goes all the way back to the Roman times, there are so many awesome things to see and do in Bath that you could easily spend a few days there and not be bored.

This road trip from London itinerary includes one full day in Bath , so I will be recommending the absolute highlights that cannot be missed!

In addition to the incredible Roman monuments that Bath is famous for, it’s also known for it’s Georgian architecture featuring many impressive 18th century structures.

Some of the highlights that you will see on your visit are the Pulteney Bridge, the Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey, but there are many other pretty buildings to be discovered as you explore the town.

Pulteney Bridge, Bath

Highlights of Bath

Roman Baths – The most famous attraction that draws people to Bath is the ancient Roman Baths. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a history that goes back almost 2,000 years. What originally started off as a Roman Temple eventually turned into a public bath house that became extremely popular for people visiting from all over the UK and Europe.

The series of pools and baths have been incredibly well maintained and preserved and are open to the public for viewing purposes only. After you finish your tour through the bathing rooms, you’ll end up at the museum which tells the story of the baths over the centuries and has many fascinating Roman artefacts on display.

When starting your full day of sightseeing in Bath, it’s worth visiting the Roman Baths first thing in the morning to avoid standing in long queues and crowds. Throughout the day, it gets very busy with tour groups visiting on a day trip from London especially during high season.

Roman Baths Opening Hours   – 9:30am – 5pm

Roman Bath Tickets – The ticket price varies throughout the year depending on the season. Tickets do tend to sell out so I would recommend buying them online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Roman Baths

Bath Abbey – Tick off yet another UNESCO Heritage listed site in Bath when you visit the beautiful 1,000 year old Bath Abbey which is conveniently located right next door to the Roman Baths.

Although the history of this church goes back so far, it has seen many changes and renovations to its appearance over the years. Entrance to the church is free but if you wish to climb the tower to get a view over the town, it costs £8.

Pulteney Bridge – A visit to Bath is not complete without a stroll across the iconic Pulteney Bridge. This 18th century bridge is one of the four bridges left in the world with shops lining each side.

The others that you may have heard of include Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Rialto Bridge in Venice, and Krämerbrücke in Germany.

Take a look through the little shops on the bridge and walk along both sides of the Avon River to find the perfect angle to photograph the bridge from.

Thermae Bath Spa – Just because you weren’t able to bathe in the ancient Roman Baths, doesn’t mean you’re out of luck! The Thermae Bath Spa is a modern hot spring spa fed by mineral waters from the original Bath springs.

You have the option to relax in their indoor baths or in the open air rooftop bath that overlooks the city with epic panoramic views. This is the perfect way to end the day and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Find out more information about visiting the Thermae Bath Spa here .

Sally Lunn’s Tea House – Stop in for a snack and some tea at the famous Sally Lunn’s Tea House. This is one of the oldest buildings in Bath and it’s also where the iconic “Bath Bun” was first created in the 15th century.

Bath is full of quintessential English tea rooms but if you’re looking for some history to go along with your tea, this is the place to go!

If you’re a customer of Sally Lunn’s, this also gives you access to the in-house museum located below the tea house. You’ll be able to walk through the medieval kitchen and learn stories of the buildings history.

Royal Crescent, Bath

Royal Crescent – Another one of Bath’s most iconic buildings is the 18th century crescent shaped row of town homes. It’s located on a hill about 15 minutes walk from the town centre.

One of the town homes has been decorated with antique furnishings and opened up to the public as a museum. Head inside the museum for a glimpse into upper class life in 18th century Bath. Find more info here .

Bath Walking Tour – Taking a guided tour of Bath’s highlights is a great idea to help you gain a deeper insight into the town’s fascinating history. A tour guide will lead you through the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, Bath Circus and the Crescent.

This tour includes skip-the-line tickets to the Roman Baths as well as a guided tour through the bath house. Click here to find tickets and availability .

Where to stay in Bath

This road trip from London itinerary recommends staying 2 nights in Bath so you’ll want to find a nice place with a good breakfast!

Bailbrook Lodge – We stayed at this charming old manor 5 minutes from Bath city centre and had a great stay. The breakfast was delicious and included complimentary champagne!

Free parking is available on site and we chose to leave the car parked there and catch the bus into Bath which was very easy to do from just outside of the inn. We can definitely recommend this place!

Brooks Guesthouse – If you’re hoping to stay somewhere a bit more central and closer to the action then the Brooks Guesthouse is a good option. It’s a 10 minute walk to the town centre of Bath making all of the main attractions easily accessible.

Parking spaces are available near the guest house at an extra cost. The rooms are nicely decorated and all reviews say positive things about the breakfast which is included in your stay.

The Bath Priory – Seeking some luxury during your stay in Bath? This gorgeous country manor is set 3km from Bath city centre, surrounded by lush greenery and gardens. The hotel features a beautiful indoor pool, sauna and a spa offering beauty treatments.

The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. The hotel’s restaurant serves high quality French cuisine and seasonal dishes. Free parking is available on site. A great option if you’re seeking some comfort and relaxation.

►Browse more accommodation options in Bath◄

Beautiful buildings of Bath

The prehistoric ruins of Stonehenge are arguably one of the most visited attractions in the UK. With millions of tourists visiting each year, there is a reason why Stonehenge is worthy of a stop on this road trip itinerary!

The most fascinating thing about this circle of stones is their mysterious nature. They’ve been estimated to be around 5,000 years old but no one actually knows how or why they were put there and arranged in a circle.

Your ticket to the stones includes the shuttle that takes you there from the visitor centre and a visit to the museum. The museum has hundreds of prehistoric exhibits on display with history and facts from the time Stonehenge was constructed. You should allow for up to 2 hours to spend at the stones and museum.

Is Stonehenge worth visiting? Stonehenge is very touristy and you can expect to see some crowds but this shouldn’t stop you from seeing such an incredible wonder of the world. Despite the crowds, Stonehenge is such a unique and important part of British history and it’s absolutely worth a visit on this road trip from London!

Tickets – £21.10 adult, £12.70 child

Buy your ticket to Stonehenge online in advance

The final stop on this road trip from London will bring you to yet another historic gem. Salisbury is the closest city to Stonehenge, being a convenient 20 minute drive to the south.

The city is steeped in fascinating history and well-known for the incredible 13th century Gothic Cathedral which happens to have the UK’s tallest spire!

Salisbury Cathedral is truly a work of art, both inside and out. Inside of the Cathedral, you will be able to see some original Saxon documents including one of the four original Magna Carta’s.

Highlights of Salisbury

Salisbury Cathedral – The city’s main attraction and one of the most visited churches in England is the spectacular Salisbury Cathedral. The Cathedral was built in traditional English Gothic style and completed in the year 1258.

Some of its best features include beautiful stained glass windows, the largest cloister in England dating from the 13th century, the oldest working clock in the world and of course the amazing spire!

One of the highlights of visiting Salisbury Cathedral is taking a tour of the tower. If you feel like braving the 332 steps up a winding medieval staircase, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over Salisbury and surrounding countryside. See the official website for more info on tower tour pricing and booking.

It goes without saying that the other highlight is seeing the Magna Carta which is displayed in the Cathedral’s Chapter House. This ancient document dates back to the year 1215 and signifies the foundation of constitutional law in Britain.

The copy that you can see in Salisbury Cathedral is the best preserved out of the four remaining copies in the world.

Salisbury Cathedral

Feeling small next to this magnificent Cathedral

Salisbury Museum – A fascinating museum full of ancient artefacts that tell the story of the region’s vast history from prehistoric times to present day. The museum is inside “The King’s House” which is a listed building dating to the 13th century, it first opened it’s doors in 1860.

Some of the objects on display are over 2,700 years old and range from weapons to jewellery and even a 4,000 year old skeleton from the Bronze Age who was found with gold and other interesting items inside his grave.

You can find the Salisbury Museum near the Cathedral Close, facing the western side of the Cathedral. See the official website for more info about planning your visit.

Old Sarum – Salisbury once started as an Iron Age settlement located 2 miles north of the current city. The history of this site goes back to the year 400 BC and you’ll be able to see the town’s ramparts, ruins from the Cathedral and the site where the castle once stood.

In the year 1220, the entire town moved to its present day location leaving Old Sarum abandoned and the Cathedral demolished once the new one was built in Salisbury.

As you walk through the peaceful countryside setting, it’s hard to imagine that a busy medieval village once existed there. Visiting this site is definitely a must during your time in Salisbury, not only is it rich in history but the countryside views also make it worth while.

Find more info about getting tickets and visiting Old Sarum here.

Medieval Pubs – Salisbury has no shortage of quirky old English pubs, full of character and old world charm. Low ceilings, oak beams, open fires and creaky floorboards, there’s really nothing like a good old medieval pub to transport you back in time!

We stopped for lunch at The New Inn and really enjoyed sitting outside in their beer garden. The timber framed building is full of character and dates to the 14th century.

The food we had was great but the best part is the awesome view of the Cathedral’s spire that can be seen from the beer garden.

A few other pubs in Salisbury that are worth checking out: The Ox Row Inn, The Wig and Quill, The Haunch of Venison , The Old Mill. See this website for a list of more pubs and dining options in Salisbury.

Exploring the medieval streets of Salisbury

Where to stay in Salisbury

The Chapter House – A charming old Tudor building with plenty of character and modern comforts located in the town centre of Salisbury, within walking distance to attractions.

The rooms are nicely decorated with modern furnishings and each one features something different from original fireplaces to wooden wall panelling. The restaurant serves British cuisine with a breakfast included in your stay. Parking is available nearby for £6 per day.

The Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel – Finish off your England road trip in a lovely old building set in a scenic location. This beautiful hotel sits on the edge of the River Avon in a gorgeous 13th century half-timbered building.

It’s located just outside of the town centre, only a 10 minute walk from the Cathedral. Some of the rooms feature stunning river views. Free parking is available on site and breakfast is also included.

The Kings Head Inn Wetherspoon –  If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option in the town centre of Salisbury, The Kings Head makes a great choice.

With excellent ratings, this hotel offers comfortable spacious rooms, a restaurant and bar on the ground floor, and walking distance to attractions, all for a reasonable price. Parking is available in a car park a few minutes walk from the inn.

►Browse more accommodation options in Salisbury◄

Read More England Travel Guides

• The Top 20 Most Beautiful English Villages
• The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary from London to Bath 
• Top 10 Cotswolds Tours from London
• 10 Epic Day Trips to the Countryside of Kent

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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Dreamy day trips from London

1.  St Leonards-on-Sea

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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South England road trip - The best of the UK from London

Looking to experience the best of the UK on a road trip? We've planned the ultimate south England road trip just for you. It's an epic 12 day round trip from London, taking in some of the major cities like Oxford, Bath, Bristol and Exeter, before cruising along the Jurassic Coast, hitting up Stonehenge, and heading along the south coast to Brighton. Read on for all the best restaurants to eat at, museums to visit, hotels to stay in and activities to do.

Day 1: London to Oxford - Brunch, the University of Oxford, & punting

Pick up your hire car and drive to oxford in time for lunch.

Welcome to the first day of your road trip! Arrive in London as early as possible, pick up your hire car if you're renting one, and set off for Oxford. The drive is only 60 miles direct along the A40 and M40 and takes about an hour and 45 minutes.

Parking in Oxford is pretty easy if you can't leave your car at your hotel, with a good number of car parks available that allow you to stay overnight. If you want to leave your car in the city centre, then opt for Oxpens car park, or for a park-and-ride service Redbridge is your best bet.

Once you've made it into town, make your way to the Vaults & Garden Cafe for some food. Housed in a 14th-century building with a beautiful vaulted ceiling connected to the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, this cafe will give you an introduction to the historic city you're about to explore, with the addition of some great breakfast.

Lunch is served between 11am and 2pm, and includes dishes from all over the world such as curries, tagines, and of course British delicacies. Enjoy your food either inside beneath the vaults or outside in the garden.

The cafe sources all local, organic and ethically sourced ingredients, and operates a 'no waste catering' policy, so it's a great business to support.

Visit the sights in Radcliffe Square

Conveniently, the cafe is located right next to your first Oxford stop, Radcliffe Square, so once you've finished your brunch step outside and begin your sightseeing.

Cobbled Radcliffe Square forms the heart of the University, and is home to three main sights: Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera (also a library), and University Church of St Mary the Virgin.

The Bodleian Library will be the main place you visit, and includes the ornate Divinity School (the oldest teaching hall of the University), Convocation House (two grand chambers which have hosted the English Parliament), the Chancellor's Court (where writers Oscar Wilde and Percy Bysshe Shelley went on trial), and Gladstone Link which connects the library with Radcliffe Camera.

Fun fact: parts of the Bodleian Library were used as filming locations for the Harry Potter movies, including the Divinity School which served as the Hogwarts hospital wing, and Duke Humfrey's Library which you might recognise from Harry's late-night library trip under the invisibility cloak in the first movie.

Access to the two libraries is limited without a tour, so we recommend you opt for one of the following four options (tickets can either be purchased online or at the Great Gate ticket office):

• A 30-minute tour which takes you round the most beautiful parts of the Bodleian Library, including the Divinity School and Duke Humfrey's medieval library. The tour costs £6 and runs regularly every afternoon.
• A 60-minute tour that covers the same as the 30-minute option with the addition of Convocation House and Chancellor's Court. This tour costs £9 and runs regularly every morning.
• A 90-minute tour which includes all of the above plus the Radcliffe Camera (only available to view through this tour) and Gladstone Link. This tour costs £15 and only runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9.15am, and Sundays at 11.15am and 1.15pm.
• There is also a short option that lasts ten minutes and takes you around the Divinity School only. This costs £1 and runs between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday, and from 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

Note: the majority of what you'll visit in Oxford is connected to Oxford University, so we advise downloading the 'Explore the University of Oxford' brochure from their website to guide you.

Leave the library and admire the Bridge of Sighs

Another iconic Oxford landmark, the Bridge of Sighs, is just around the corner from the main entrance to the Library, so head there next.

Located on New College Lane, the bridge is a skyway connecting the old and new quadrangles of Hereford College, and bears an uncanny resemblance to the bridge of the same name in Venice. Legend has it that the bridge borrowed this name from its Venetian cousin to symbolise the sighs of worrying students on their way to exams, but that's just one of many myths to do with this landmark.

Walk under the bridge, snap some photos, and let out some symbolic signs of your own before you move on.

Walk through the pretty Oxford streets to Christ Church College

A trip to Oxford wouldn't be complete without a nosey round one of the University colleges, so take a picturesque stroll from the Bridge past Exeter, Jesus, and Lincoln Colleges to get to one of the largest and most famous - Christ Church.

This college is made up of a group of stunning buildings, including the Tom Tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren (of St Paul's Cathedral fame), the Tom Quad, the largest quad in Oxford, and the Great Dining Hall which also featured in Harry Potter.

This college's list of alumni is also super impressive, including 13 British prime ministers and the author of Alice in Wonderland. Today, the college welcomes around 450 undergraduates and 150 graduate students from all over the world to study at this historic, prestigious institution, mingling modern student life with rich history.

Standard admission to tour the college costs £8 to £10 (depending on the time of year) and grants access to the Quads, Cloister, Hall Staircase, and Dining Hall, with tickets available online (released each Thursday for the following week), or from the Meadow Gate ticket kiosk.

You can opt for an hour-long tour if you prefer which cost between £13 and £17, but be aware that this isn't possible in July and August.

Note: if areas of the college are in use by the students or staff during your visit they may be closed; for example, you won't be able to visit the Dining Hall during meal times.

Spend the rest of the afternoon punting on the River Cherwell

You should have a little time left before it gets dark, so walk east from Christ Church to the Magdalen Bridge Boat House to hire a traditional punt.

These long wooden boats are propelled by a pole pushed against the river bed, and lounging on one along a British waterway is an iconic and relaxing activity, as long as you don't fall in the water, that is…

Punts take up to five people, and you can either hire one and brave steering it yourself, or pay a professional chauffeur to take you along the river; we'd recommend going without the driver, as steering is great fun and not very difficult once you get the hang of it! Punts cost £22 per hour to hire.

Drive to Gee's Restaurant & Bar for dinner

Collapse at your hotel for a while after your busy day, then hop in the car and drive to Gee's Restaurant & Bar for dinner.

Although the restaurant isn't that far away (it's around a ten-minute drive), we're guessing you'll be all walked-out by this point, so take the car and park on Canterbury Road where you can stay for free for two hours.

This Mediterranean restaurant is housed in a beautiful Victorian Glasshouse filled with plants and olive trees, and has a menu that changes daily to reflect the best of the season. Expect great vegetarian options as well as delicious meat and fish dishes, plus a tempting cocktail list to go alongside your food (with non-alcoholic concoctions available for whomever's driving).

Day 2: Oxford to Bath to Bristol - Bath sights & coffee on your way to Bristol

Drive to Bath via the Cotswolds

Have breakfast and set off early on day four to drive to Bath.

Rather than connecting with the M4 when you reach Swindon, take a scenic detour by following the A419 up to Cirencester, then wriggling south through the country lanes of the Cotswolds. This route beats taking a boring motorway any day, and will take you past sprawling green fields and quaint British villages for a taste of rural England.

The drive should take around two hours, but take your time on the small country roads - passing other vehicles can be a tricky manoeuvre!

Travel tip: if you're a less confident driver and don't fancy squeezing past other cars on tight lanes, then follow the A433 - it's still really scenic, just a little wider!

Park the car and walk into the centre of Bath to visit the Roman Baths

Park the car in Manvers Street car park which is a short walk from the centre of town. You have to pay upfront for the number of hours you're going to stay, so have a rough idea of what time you want to leave to arrive in Bristol later on.

Staying for four hours costs £6.40, and for six hours costs £9.60.

The Roman Baths are just a five-minute walk from the car park, so head there first. Probably the most iconic landmark in the city, this complex of thermal baths is a well-preserved Roman site that was once used for public bathing.

Geothermal energy and pressure cause the warm water to rise from thousands of metres under the ground to the surface, supplying both these ancient baths and the modern Thermae Bath Spa with steaming hot water.

You can't bathe in the Roman Baths anymore, but nearby Thermae Bath Spa is a beautiful modern complex where you can safely enjoy water from the same source, if you want to.

It's thought that the baths could have also been a centre of worship for the Celts, with the springs dedicated to the goddess Sulis, so this is a spiritual as well as recreational landmark to visit.

Admission costs £16.50 and grants you access to all areas of the Baths, including the Great Bath, the Temple Precinct where the Romans once worshipped, the changing areas of the East Baths, and the icy plunge pool of the West Baths.

Your ticket includes a free multimedia guide available in 12 languages, and also allows you to join informative public tours that start at the Great Bath on the hour every hour from 10am.

Grab lunch and admire Bath Abbey

By the time you've finished at the Baths it'll be time for lunch, so grab a quick bite nearby. There are loads of great cafes in the area, but we recommend Mokoko Coffee which serves up generous plates of colourful salads and slices of quiche that'll be sure to fill you up for the rest of your Bath exploring.

Mokoko and the Baths are right next to Bath Abbey, so have a quick look at this historic church before moving on to explore the rest of town.

Built with iconic golden Bath stone, it's definitely worth popping inside this towering Gothic abbey, even just for a quick gaze at the vaulted ceiling, impressive stained glass windows, and huge organ.

It's free to go inside, but it's recommended that adults give a donation of £4 which goes towards maintaining this beautiful building.

Wander round Bath and visit the Royal Crescent

From here stroll up Union Street and through the main pedestrianised shopping area, taking in the historic buildings and enjoying Bath's friendly atmosphere - travel tip: if you're visiting around Christmas, you'll find many of it's Christmas market stalls here.

Connect up with Milsom Street, then cross over the A4 and walk up tiny Bartlett Street, passing its cosy cafes and boutique shops which lead to the elegant 18th century Bath Assembly Rooms.

Admire the outside of this beautiful building, before heading west on Bennett Street to The Circus - a historic ring of Georgian townhouses that will make you envy anyone lucky enough to live there.

Continue walking west from here and you'll get to an even bigger curve of impressive houses at the Royal Crescent. Synonymous with Bath, this half-moon of houses is a must-see attraction, and one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the whole of the UK.

The crescent overlooks a pristine green lawn, so just enjoy this space and snap some photos of the houses, or if your curiosity gets the better of you, number one is a museum that has been furnished as it might have been in the 18th century, so you can get a feel for how it's residents would have lived. Admission costs £10.30 for adults.

Go for coffee at Colonna and Small's

Walk back to The Circus then south down Gay Street to Queen Square where you'll find Colonna and Small's in the southwestern corner.

This speciality coffee shop is all about the vibrant, varied, and exciting flavours that come from coffee beans, serving up the ultimate brew. The modern interiors are chic and minimalist whilst remaining cosy, and the staff are really friendly and on hand to talk you through the options and suggest which bean and style of coffee would be ideal for you.

If you love coffee or you're in the market for learning more about it, then this is the place to go. Relax with your ideal coffee, buy a bag of beans to take home, and head back to the car to drive to Bristol.

Drive to Bristol and go for dinner at Bosco Pizzeria

Driving to Bristol from Bath is super easy and takes less than an hour - simply follow the A36 and A4 to join up with Victoria Street in Bristol.

Find your hotel, park your car, freshen up and head to Clifton Village for dinner. This is one of the nicest areas of the city, made up of stunning Georgian houses, leafy green spaces, elegant boutiques, amazing cafes and restaurants, and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

You'll be back in Clifton on day five to really make the most of this picturesque area of town, but for now head to Bosco Pizzeria for a well-earned dinner.

This classy pizza joint is actually the offshoot of its hugely successful original restaurant on Whiteladies Road, and is a celebration of the freshness and simplicity of Italian cooking.

There are loads of different dishes on the menu, including mouthwatering pasta, tasty small plates, and hearty meat and fish options, however the real star of the show is their wood-fired pizza which is made fresh to order in the open pizza kitchen in the centre of the restaurant.

For the meat-eaters among you, we'd recommend the Emilia Romagna topped with Italian sausage, creamy fior di latte mozzarella, sweet roasted peppers, basil, and crunchy breadcrumbs, and for the veggies the funghi - a pizza bianco (with a creamy instead of tomatoey base) topped with mushrooms, mozzarella, mascarpone, and truffle oil (yes, it's as good as it sounds).

Book ahead online to ensure you get a table, and order a Negroni or Aperol Spritz to sip as you wait for your food to arrive.

Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge by night

Seeing as you're in Clifton after sundown, walk around the corner to the Clifton Suspension Bridge; you'll see it again on day five, however it's quite a different sight admiring it all lit up and floating above the Avon Gorge at night.

Designed by world-renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this bridge has become one of Bristol's most recognisable landmarks, so it's the ideal way to kick off your sightseeing.

Gaze at the lights for a while, then head back to your hotel to get some rest ready for a busy day five.

Day 3: Bristol - Explore the city, dinner, & an evening activity

Start day 5 at bristol harbourside and visit the arnolfini gallery.

Kick off day five at Bristol Harbourside. This central area of the city was once a busy dock, buzzing with merchants trading goods and ships setting sail for epic voyages. Today it's a little more modern, and filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels, as well as some of the city's top attractions including Brunel's SS Great Britain ship, the We The Curious science museum, Bristol Aquarium, and the Watershed independent cinema.

Have a walk around the area, then head to the Arnolfini arts centre as your first stop.

Founded in 1961, this modern gallery space exhibits everything from quirky art to visual performances, and is a must-see Bristol attraction to get a feel for this city's creative flare.

The centre is predominantly an art gallery and is partnered with the famous Tate, so expect some great visual art during your visit. The centre is free to enter, however it's a good idea to drop a few pounds into the donations pot as it's a charity that relies on the generosity of its visitors to run.

Spot Banksy's graffiti on Park Street and climb Cabot Tower

When you leave the gallery, head north towards the Bristol Hippodrome theatre, then east past College Green and Bristol Cathedral to walk up famous Park Street.

This hill is lined with boutique, music, and book shops as well as quaint cafes, cosy restaurants, and lively bars, and offers a super scenic walk with the University of Bristol's towering Wills Memorial building at the top.

Before you head up the hill make sure you spot one of Bristol's most famous pieces of street art by the elusive graffiti artist Banksy, one of the city's most famous natives.

The piece, provocatively named 'Well Hung Lover', is painted on the side of a building on the right hand side at the bottom of the street.

Once you've admired the graffiti continue walking most of the way up the hill, dipping into the shops to give your legs a rest (it's pretty steep). Just before you reach the top, turn left onto Charlotte Street to get to Brandon Hill park.

The park is, you guessed it, on top of a hill, so you get amazing views of Bristol's rows of colourful houses and the sprawling countryside just outside its limits.

For even better views and a proper look at the Wills Memorial building, climb to the top of Cabot Tower located in the centre of the park.

The tower is a free public fixture, so climb its narrow staircase and make sure you walk the full way around the viewing area at the top for 360 degree views of the city.

Go for lunch at The Epiphany Cafe

Leave via the north end of the park and make your way through Berkeley Square to Queen's Road. Walk past the Wills Memorial to see it up close, then follow the road east towards the Royal West of England Academy, an art school and gallery which is home to The Epiphany Cafe .

This stylish, fuss-free cafe is super friendly and welcoming, and all about award-winning coffee, the freshest locally sourced ingredients, and mouth-watering cakes, making it an amazing lunch spot.

Their offering is simple yet delicious, with a selection of toasties, soups, quiches, and salads that can all be served up in either the cosy plant-filled cafe or on the academy's roof terrace overlooking another of the University's beautiful historic buildings - the Victoria Rooms.

Make sure you leave room for coffee and cake (try the raspberry chocolate brownies or polenta cake if they have them on the counter that day), before you set off for your next stop, Clifton Village.

Wander round Clifton Village and visit the Camera Obscura or the Giant's Cave

From the cafe walk west into Clifton Village, following Queen's Road past the University Student Union and across grassy Victoria Square.

The western corner of the square will lead you through a picturesque archway into a lovely pedestrianised area of cafes and shops that marks the start of the village.

Spend some time exploring the area of your own accord - it's easy to walk around Clifton for hours admiring the beautiful houses on Royal York Crescent and the local businesses on Princess Victoria Street.

When you're ready to visit your next attraction, walk to the Clifton Suspension Bridge (notice how different it looks in daylight) and choose one of the following:

• Enjoy 360 degree views of the Bridge and Clifton through the Bristol Camera Obscura - This clever type of camera projects a live image of the outside through a pinprick hole, and Bristol's room-sized version allows you to see people milling around and cars cruising over the bridge in real time - it's pretty magical. Entrance to the Camera Obscura costs £2.50.
• Climb down to the Giant's Cave - Bristolian folklore states that two giants, Goram and Ghyston, once lived in this cave in the Avon Gorge, and today you can climb through the 61-metre long tunnel to the cave which opens out onto a viewing platform right on the cliff face. It's something a little bit different and you'll get a completely unique view of the area you can't get from anywhere else. Entry to the Giant's Cave costs £2.50.

Note: if you fancy doing both things, you can get a combined ticket for £4.

Have an early evening drink at the iconic Coronation Tap pub

As the afternoon comes to a close it's about time for a drink, and there's nowhere more iconic in Bristol than the Coronation Tap.

Known by locals as The Cori Tap, this centuries-old pub is the oldest cider house in the city and brews its own Exhibition cider which is exclusively sold on-site. You can only get it by the half pint because of its notoriously high alcohol content, so just have one or two whilst you soak up the pub's character. You'll find The Cori Tap in the heart of Clifton Village at the end of Portland Street.

Alternatively, if strong cider isn't your thing or the evening is too nice to be sat inside a pub, head to the White Lion Bar in the Avon Gorge Hotel which has one of the biggest terraces in the South West.

This outdoor area overlooks the Suspension Bridge (we've mentioned it a lot but views of the bridge don't get old, promise!) and surrounding countryside, and is heated for when things start to get a bit chilly, so you can comfortably sit back, sip your favourite drink, and enjoy your surroundings.

Book a table at Souk Kitchen for dinner and enjoy an evening activity

Book ahead to make sure you get a table at Souk Kitchen for dinner on day five, then head there either straight from the bar or via your hotel.

This Mediterranean restaurant has a rustic Middle Eastern feel inspired by markets and street food stalls of Arab and Berber cities, and gives diners the choice between mezze small plates and bigger main dishes.

We think the mezze is the best option, and the menu regularly changes depending on the season so there's always something fresh and delicious to get stuck in to. T

he dishes and dining style are relaxed, with warm flickering candles and colourful furnishings making it a welcoming, elegant spot for your final Bristol dinner. There are two branches of the restaurant, but opt for the one on Apsley Road as it's on the edge of Clifton.

Make time for one last activity to tie up your stay in Bristol and get a feel for this buzzing city after dark. We've selected three different options to suit every mood:

• Something lively - Check ahead what's going on aboard Thekla during your stay and go to a gig. This alternative music venue is actually a boat that's permanently docked on the harbour that hosts bands and DJs, and is a really fun place to head for an evening of music. You can access most of the boat, so make sure you explore both floors and the outside deck, and it turns into a club every Thursday and Saturday (and occasionally other nights too) so you can stay and dance the night away if you want to.
• Something easy-going - Head to the Watershed and catch a film. This cultural arts centre focuses on digital media and is home to three cinemas screening everything from new releases, to foreign films, to old classics, and is a great place if you're in the market for a relaxed evening of entertainment.
• Something social - If you fancy going somewhere for a chinwag with your road trip companion then we recommend heading for a cocktail at Milk Thistle . This off-the-beaten-path prohibition bar mixes up some of the best cocktails in the city, including twists on the classics, their own unique concoctions, and tailor-made creations for their customers. Don't drink alcohol? Not a problem - just tell the skilled bartenders your favourite flavours and they'll mix you up something delicious.

Day 4: Bristol to Exeter via Glastonbury - Cheddar Gorge drive & lunch in Glastonbury

Take a scenic drive through cheddar gorge.

Leave Bristol on the morning of day six, driving south out of the city towards the Mendip Hills. This stunning area of rolling hills and green fields offers one of the most scenic routes from Bristol to Exeter and is a really pleasant drive.

As with your route through the Cotswolds you can follow the smaller country lanes if you want to, however we'd say following the bigger B3134 and B3371 is a just as scenic and hassle-free way to drive through the hills.

Once you've reached the end of the B3371, head west onto Cliff Road which will take you down through Cheddar Gorge.

This limestone gorge is home to a number of caves, one of which is where Britain's oldest complete human skeleton, thought to be over 9,000 years old, was discovered in 1903, and has become one of Somerset's most popular tourist attractions.

Either just drive through the gorge and enjoy the scenery, or stop and explore; there are loads of things to do including visiting Gough's Cave where the skeleton was discovered, climbing the 274-step Jacob's Ladder for amazing views, looking around the Museum of Prehistory, and going for a cliff-top walk.

There are three car parks, however the one at Gough's Cave is the biggest with 300 spaces so that might be your best bet to find a spot.

Have lunch at Rainbows End Cafe in Glastonbury

After you've spent enough time at Cheddar Gorge follow the A371 southeast to join up with Glastonbury Road which will take you south into Glastonbury town.

As well as giving the famous music festival its name, Glastonbury is a really pretty, quintessentially British town to visit and is ideal for a lunch stop-off to break up your drive to Exeter.

Have a walk through the town and enjoy its famously hippy culture before heading to Rainbows End Cafe on the High Street for some food.

This award-winning family cafe is completely vegetarian and renowned for its homemade food. They have an inviting, colourful salad bar with loads of tasty and healthy options, as well as soups and main dishes that change daily and a selection of tempting cakes.

Although everything on offer is exclusively veggie or vegan, their home-cooked, British food will satisfy even the most avid meat-eaters, so definitely choose this cafe to refuel.

Climb up Glastonbury Tor

After lunch, leave the car in Glastonbury and walk to famous Glastonbury Tor (it's a short walk along the A361).

This hill rises above the town and is topped by historic St Michael's Tower (the remains of 14th century Church of St Michael) and boasts 360-degree views of the Isle of Avalon, Glastonbury, and Somerset.

Make your way to the top to take in the beautiful Somerset countryside one last time before walking back into town and picking up the car to drive on to Exeter.

Drive to Exeter and go for dinner

Drive southwest along the A361 to join up with the M5 which will take you the rest of the way to Exeter, with the whole drive taking around and hour and a half.

You'll probably arrive in the early evening, so just find somewhere for dinner before you call it a night. We've got two restaurant suggestions to give you some inspiration:

• Old Firehouse - for a lively, informal meal we'd recommend going for your second pizza of the trip at the Old Firehouse. Popular with both locals and students alike thanks to its buzzing atmosphere, this pub serves up giant 14-inch square pizzas with loads of different meaty, veggie, and vegan toppings to choose from.
• @Angelas - this quiet restaurant it tucked away in the western quarter of the city and is a great place for a quality, relaxed meal. Serving up classic dishes using the best local and seasonal ingredients, everything is sure to be delicious and a true celebration of the area.

Day 5: Exeter - See the sights & have a Devon cream tea

Visit exeter cathedral.

Have a lie in to start day seven (we've given you enough early mornings!), and set off to look around Exeter whenever you're ready; as cities go it's pretty quiet and slow-paced, so expect a more leisurely sightseeing experience compared to your time in Bristol.

Start at Exeter Cathedral located in the centre of town. This vast church is one of the greatest cathedrals in England, and has a whole load of stunning features to look out for, including colourful stained glass windows, an ornately decorated nave, the earliest complete set of misericords, and one of the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceilings in the world.

It costs £7.50 to enter the church which goes towards its maintenance, and free audio guides are available to tell you all about its history.

Get cultured at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum

From the Cathedral, walk north for a few minutes to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (or RAMM) for an educational peruse of the exhibitions.

This museum covers a really diverse range of topics, including antiquities, fine art, natural history, and world cultures, so there's bound to be something that catches your interest.

If the vast number of exhibitions is a little overwhelming, we'd recommend prioritising the art collection (which has around 7,000 pieces), and the fascinating specimens in the zoology collection.

From here just have a stroll around the centre of the city, stopping for lunch when you get peckish and generally taking in Exeter's charm at your own pace.

Have a traditional Devon cream tea at Tea on the Green

End up back at the Cathedral mid-afternoon just in time for a classic Devon cream tea at Tea on the Green cafe.

This quintessentially southern British treat consists of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam washed down with a cup of tea, and it's definitely the best way to spend an afternoon in Devon.

Top tip: the Cornish have their own version of this tea time favourite where the scone is split in two and topped first with the jam then the cream, whereas in Devon it's strictly clotted cream first.

Locals can get pretty passionate about which way round you spread your toppings, so make sure you're an honorary Devonian this tea time!

Top off the afternoon at Exeter Quayside

Spend what's left of your afternoon enjoying Exeter Quayside, a historic yet contemporary area of the city which straddles the River Exe.

Once a prehistoric port, this bustling area is full of charming antique shops, cosy cafes, and classic British pubs and restaurants, so there's plenty to choose from to occupy the last couple of hours before dinner.

If you're after something a little more active after your very laid-back day, you could head to The Quay Climbing Centre - one of the South West's largest climbing walls - on the south side of the river, or rent a kayak or stand up paddle board for an hour to enjoy the water as the sun sets. You can hire kayaks and boards from Kayakhub on Maritime Court.

Either go for dinner at the Quay or walk north from the river towards the Cathedral where you'll find loads of great places to eat before retiring to your hotel ready for an early start on day eight.

Day 6: Salisbury via the Jurassic Coast - Visit Lyme Regis & go fossil hunting in Charmouth en route to Salisbury.

Take a scenic drive along the jurassic coast to lyme regis.

Time for another scenic drive! Leave Exeter as early as possible and drive south from the city to Exmouth, following the local roads all the way down to the rocky cliffs of Orcombe Point which mark the start of the stunning Jurassic Coast.

This World Heritage Site stretches along 95-miles of coastline and is one of the country's most famous areas for discovering fossils and understanding the past through its incredible rock formations.

You'll only be driving about half of this rocky stretch, hugging the coastline from Exmouth through the small towns of Sidmouth and Seaton to get to Lyme Regis.

Wriggling through the local roads will get you to Lyme Regis in around an hour and 45 minutes, however you could just follow the A3052 all the way from Exeter and get there in an hour if you're not fussed about the scenery (although we'd strongly recommend the longer detour).

Take a break from driving and enjoy the seaside charm of Lyme Regis

Located at the heart of the Jurassic Coast where west Dorset and east Devon meet, Lyme Regis is renowned for its beauty, so stop off here to stretch your legs and soak up the stunning landscapes.

Park in Monmouth Beach Car Park then wander along The Cobb, a long stone pier which forms the harbour, and breathe in the fresh sea air.

If the weather's not great and the sea is a little wild then you might not be able to make it right the way to the end of the pier, however if it's safe to do so definitely give it a go.

Walk back down The Cobb and have a stroll along the unspoilt seafront of Sandy Beach with its fishing boats bobbing on the water, before wandering back to the car to continue your drive.

Drive on to Salisbury, stopping to go fossil hunting in Charmouth

A visit to the Jurassic Coast wouldn't be complete without some fossil hunting, so hop in the car and drive a few minutes down the road to neighbouring Charmouth.

This large shingle beach with its dramatic, rugged cliffs is known internationally for its fossils, so walk down the beach and see if you can find any.

A visit to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is a good idea if you want a higher fossil-finding success rate as they have loads of information on the best ways to find them, and even run group fossil walks if you're really serious about taking home a souvenir.

Go for a classic British fish and chips with lashings of salt and vinegar for lunch before you hit the road again (Charmouth Fish Bar is your best bet for where to get it), and go back to the car to drive to Salisbury.

Just follow the A35 to connect up with the A354 which should get you to Salisbury in around an hour and a half.

Day eight has already been super busy, so when you arrive put your feet up in your hotel room and rest before grabbing a light dinner (portions of fish and chips are notoriously large so you'll probably still be full from lunch) and calling it a night.

Day 7: Salisbury - Visit Magna Carta, go to Stonehenge & have dinner

Go to salisbury cathedral to visit magna carta.

Wake up refreshed on day nine and head to Salisbury Cathedral.

We know we've sent you to a handful of cathedrals already, however Salisbury's offering is more than just a religious building as it's home to the best preserved of the four surviving copies of Magna Carta, a charter of rights agreed to by the king in 1215 that promised justice, fairness, and human rights.

This historic document inspired movements towards freedom all over the world, so is a pretty incredible sight to behold which you'll find in the Chapter House of the Cathedral.

Magna Carta itself is housed in a darkened tent-like structure in the middle of an insightful, interactive exhibition that will get you clued-up on the making of the document, why it's housed in Salisbury, and its importance around the world.

Have a look around the rest of the Cathedral whilst you're there (it has the tallest spire in Britain), and bear in mind that whilst it's free to look around and visit Magna Carta, the recommended donation of £7.50 per adult is greatly appreciated to keep the Cathedral open for visitors.

Have lunch then drive to Stonehenge

After you've finished at the Cathedral have a little wander around the green and the surrounding area (travel tip: walk through High Street Gate, it's really pretty), before heading to a nearby cafe for lunch.

Some suggestions include the Bell Tower Tea Room overlooking the Cathedral, and Boston Tea Party, a South West chain that feels like a cosy, independent cafe selling home-cooked food and great coffee.

After lunch, pick up the car and set off for legendary Stonehenge which is only a 20-minute drive north along the A360.

This famous stone circle is one of Britain's most iconic landmarks and is thought to date back around 4,500 years with archaeologists believing it was constructed gradually from 3000 BC to 2000 BC.

Its construction and purpose, however, are still debated today as there are no written records detailing its origins, and the myths surrounding the stones are one of the best parts of this attraction.

Theories range from the spiritual to the supernatural, and there's loads of speculation as to how the stones were moved and positioned so perfectly without the sophisticated tools and machinery to do so.

Go for a walk around the stone circle and come up with your own theory on how the stones got there (our bet is aliens), and stick around to visit some of the sight's other attractions if you want to. These include a group of Neolithic houses built to replicate how people lived 4,500 years ago, the Standing in the Stones exhibition which offers a 360-degree virtual simulation of what it would be like to stand amongst the stones during the summer and winter solstices, and the Stonehenge Exhibition which offers some insight into the landmark and displays over 250 objects uncovered in the area.

Every part of this amazing attraction is super interesting, so we'd recommend spending the whole afternoon here seeing as much of it as you can. General admission costs £17.50 for adults and last entry is at 3pm with the site closing at 5pm.

Enjoy some classic British pub grub for dinner

You've had a Devon cream tea, you've devoured a classic fish and chips, now it's time for another British staple - hearty pub grub (aka a meal at a pub) - so drive back into Salisbury, freshen up at your hotel, and head to the 14th-century half-timbered Haunch of Venison.

As one of Salisbury's oldest pubs, this is the ultimate rustic spot for your British pub experience, and to fully soak up the atmosphere we'd recommend first having a drink in the characterful downstairs bar before heading upstairs to the simple yet elegant restaurant.

Admittedly the food has a touch more class than some of your standard British pubs, but they still sell many of the classics including sausages and mash, steak and chips, fish pie, and of course fish and chips (if you're up for round two).

Expect to also find some great vegetarian options, and to head back to your hotel (very) full of your new favourite British dish.

Day 8: Salisbury to Chichester to Brighton - Explore Chichester & drive to Brighton

Drive to chichester and either relax on the beach at west wittering or explore the city.

Set off early on day ten - you've got a lot of road to cover to get you from Salisbury to Brighton, taking the most scenic route possible through the South Downs National Park and stopping off in Chichester along the way.

Your scenic route from Salisbury to Chichester avoids the busy M27 motorway and instead takes a detour slightly north through the South Downs.

To get to the picturesque rolling hills of this national park, take the A36 east out of Salisbury and join up with the B3335 before enjoying this lovely area of countryside as you use your map or sat-nav to follow the B roads east.

Try to end up close to South Harting where you can join up with the B2141 which will take you south into Chichester.

Relax on the beach at West Wittering or explore Chichester city

By day ten of your road trip things could go one of two ways: either you'll be brimming with enthusiasm to make the most of what little time you have left and want to do as much sightseeing as possible, or your energy levels will be wavering a little and you'll be in the mood for something relaxing before you hit up Brighton tomorrow.

Either way we've got you covered, and have come up with two different suggestions to suit your mood (as well as cater for the unpredictable British weather).

Option 1 - If it's a warm and sunny or crisp winters day and you're after the chilled option, we'd recommend staying in the car and driving south past Chichester to the Witterings.

These two sleepy seaside villages, East and West Wittering, are perfect for a spot of relaxed wandering and gift shop browsing, followed by a sprawl on the golden sand or a chilly walk along the water at nearby West Wittering beach.

The beach holds a Blue Flag Award, and is a beautiful unspoilt spot to enjoy some sandy coastline in contrast to the rocky shingle of the Jurassic Coast. Spend a leisurely few hours here, grabbing a hot tea or an ice cream from the cafe (depending on the time of year) and enjoying the area's natural beauty.

Option 2 - If the weather's not great or you're just in the market for some more sightseeing, drive into Chichester centre, leave the car in New Park Car Park and go for an explore.

This city has a fascinating history as a Roman settlement, and is home to another stunning cathedral, so take a look around to get a feel for the place. We'd recommend walking the city walls (the most intact circuit of Roman defenses in the south of England) to see the heart of the city, following the mile and a half trail around its historic sights, before ending up at the Pallant House Gallery for a cultural indoor activity where you can shelter from the weather if you need to.

This modern British art museum explores contemporary art from 1900 to the present day, and is housed in a beautiful 18th century townhouse that's a work of art in itself. Spend a couple of hours browsing the art and taking a break at the Pallant Cafe before you're ready to drive on to Brighton.

Drive to Brighton in time for an evening activity

Set off from Chichester with enough daylight left to make the hour and a quarter drive to Brighton before it gets dark, heading back into the South Downs National Park and following the A283 east.

Be sure to drive through the picturesque village of Steyning for a little more British small-town charm before heading south and along the coast to Brighton.

We're giving you even more options to choose from once you've arrived in this vibrant seaside city, so select one of the following suggestions to get to grips with Brighton's evening scene:

• Play a round of UV crazy golf at Globalls - quirky, jungle-themed crazy golf course Globalls features life-sized animal sculptures and crazy wall art, all glowing in a rainbow of neon colours under the UV lights (wear white so you can get in on the glowing action). This is putting like you've never experienced it before, and a unique way to spend a fun evening in Brighton.
• See a movie at the Duke of York's Picturehouse - recognised as the oldest function-built continually operating cinema in the UK, the Duke of York's was built in 1910 and screens a diverse range of movies, from new releases, to foreign productions, to cult classics. Head here for a spot of cinematic culture, or just catch that film you've been meaning to see for ages.
• Have a pint in a cave at The Tempest Inn - if you just fancy a quiet drink, then The Tempest Inn is a must. This seafront pub sits right on the beach, boasting uninterrupted sea views and selling local Sussex beers and great cocktails. The real gem of this pub is, however, downstairs, where you'll find a warren of pink-hued caves where you can cosy up with a pint; you may not get the beach views, but for the ultimate drink-with-a-difference, it's definitely worth the sacrifice.

Day 9: Brighton - Brighton walking tour, take in the views from the British Airways i360 & go for your final dinner

Visit the royal pavilion and wriggle down through the lanes.

It's the final full day of your south England road trip, so make the most of it with one last early morning, kicking off your self-guided walking tour with a visit to the unique Royal Pavilion.

Originally built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV, this quirky building mixes regal opulence with exotic architectural styles from India and China, and it's unlike anything you will have seen so far on your road trip.

Just seeing it from the outside is impressive enough, however you won't regret choosing to go inside to admire the enviable bedrooms, stunning reception rooms, lavish banqueting room, and vast kitchen all making it an impressive sight to behold.

Admission costs £13.50 (or is 10% cheaper if booked online).

Travel tip: if you're visiting around Christmas, part of the grounds is transformed into an ice rink between November and January where you can skate against the backdrop of the Pavilion as it glows with festive lights. An hour's skate costs £10 and it's best to book online in advance.

The Lanes are another of Brighton's most iconic attractions, so once you've seen enough of the Royal Pavilion find this historic maze of alleyways which stretch south from nearby North Street.

Located at the heart of what was once the fishing town of Brighthelmstone, these quaint lanes are lined with independent shops and boutiques selling all manner of antiques, jewellery, and one-of-a-kind clothing alongside quirky cafes, jazz bars and restaurants.

Explore the whole area, indulging in some window (or actual) shopping as you soak up the atmosphere.

One shop we'd definitely recommend having a look inside is the fabulously-named Choccywoccydoodah which sells the wackiest chocolate creations and cakes that are nothing short of works of art.

Walk along the seafront and have some fun on Brighton Palace Pier

Walking all the way through to the south side of The Lanes will naturally bring you out at the seafront (either via Black Lion Street or Ship Street), so go for a short stroll east along the beach to end up at the famous Brighton Palace Pier.

This 1,722-foot long Victorian pier is probably the most iconic sight in the whole city, stretching out into the sea and buzzing with thrill-seeking roller coasters, indulgent food stalls, and the Palace of Fun arcade which will transport you back to your childhood.

Discover the length of the Pier, go on some rides if you're up for it (brave the Turbo Coaster if you fancy an adrenaline rush), and treat yourself to some naughty fast food for lunch (fish and chip round three?) to do this sight justice.

Travel tip: whilst you're on the Pier make sure you look west across the water and spot the old Brighton West Pier.

It was built in the 1860s and suffered various bouts of damage in the 1970s and 1980s, before catching fire in 2002 and being deemed beyond repair. Today you can just see its shell sitting on the water as a reminder of where Brighton's seafront entertainment began.

Top off your sightseeing with a trip up the British Airways i360

From the Pier, walk back east along the beach (stop for a sit down if your feet are getting tired), and head towards the British Airways i360 for you final Brighton activity.

This giant glass viewing pod slowly rises 450 feet into the air offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the rolling hills of the South Downs in the distance. There's a bar on board, so grab a drink and toast your road trip as you enjoy the views, making sure you do a full circuit of the pod to take in the scenery at every possible angle.

'Flights'depart every half an hour and cost £16.50, offering a magical way to salute the beginning of the end of your road trip.

You'll probably have a little time left before you need to get ready for dinner, so pick up some last minute souvenirs, have one final Brighton stroll, then head back to your hotel to get ready to go to the restaurant.

Treat yourself to a celebratory dinner at The Gingerman

Have a table booked at The Gingerman and head there in the evening to celebrate the amazing trip you've just experienced - you've seen a lot!

This intimate, cosy restaurant close to the seafront is the perfect spot for a special yet unfussy meal focused on simple, quality ingredients and amazing flavours.

The imaginative menu celebrates seasonal produce, with a great selection of British meat, fish, and veggie options and irresistible desserts (you can opt for either two or three course for a set price, and we definitely advise going for a pudding).

Enjoy your food, reminisce about your favourite memories from the trip, and make the most of the final night of your holiday.

Day 10: Brighton to London - Drive to London and make the journey home

The only thing on the agenda for day 12 is driving back to London to start your journey home, so pack your things and hop in the car whenever you're ready to go.

Once you've made it back to London, drop off your hire car if you have one, spend a little time in London if you fancy it, then make your way to the airport or train station. We hope you've enjoyed your trip!

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UK Road Trip Itinerary Planner | The 7 Best Routes

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2024

If you love to take to the wheel and you’ll be visiting the UK at some point in the future, then you need to find the perfect UK road trip itinerary! This UK road trip planner aims to help you pin down the ideal 1 week, 10 day or 2 week UK road trip itinerary to follow during your visit. 

Featured in this guide are 7 of the best road trip routes in the UK. Whether you want a 10 days in England itinerary, would rather spend a week in Wales or have 10 days to discover Scotland, this post showcases the very best that the UK has to offer. 

Don’t plan a road trip in the UK without reading this first! From the Scottish Highlands to the sunny south coast of England and wild, unspoiled Wales, here are seven of the best UK road trip itineraries. But first, a few pointers on how to use this guide.

Cherry-picking

Pace yourself, the great british weather, driving in the uk, 1. the cotswolds and the south of england, 2. wonderful wales, 3. the english countryside, 4. the south to north circular, 5. capital to capital (london to edinburgh), 6. devon and cornwall, 7. bonnie scotland, which uk road trip itinerary will you follow, how to use this uk road trip itinerary planner.

You could follow these itineraries over whatever period of time you have at your disposal, but we’d say you need at least a week.

A fortnight means you can spend more time in each place, while ten days means having to rush around a little less than when you have only 7 nights to spare. 

The key thing to remember here is that it’s your UK road trip, not ours! So you can of course cherry pick where you want to go and leave out anywhere that doesn’t really interest you. 

If you think about it, doing that means you could fit in two of these itineraries, back-to-back, over a fortnight. Rather than just one. Having said that…

A holiday is all about having fun. Or at least it should be. For that reason, we urge you not to try to pack too much in. Pace yourself and you might just enjoy yourself a whole lot more. 

When you’re not sure about where you really want to go, ask yourself this. Would you be really disappointed if you missed out on visiting this place? Or are you not really all that bothered? If you’re not feeling the love and aren’t too fussed about it, then is it really worth spending the time and money on going there? 

Wherever you go, be prepared for the weather to take over. British people often seem to talk about little else. Whether you’re in northern Scotland, west Wales or central England, the maritime climate of the British Isles means that the weather can be very changeable. 

Dress in layers, take along a packable rain jacket and an umbrella, pick the right footwear and you’ll be prepared for anything. 

Before you draw up that UK road trip map, you’ll need to think about driving around the country. Booking car hire before you go is always advisable, especially if you want a particular kind of vehicle. Such as an automatic – cars with manual transmission are still the norm in the UK. 

In the UK they drive on the left. Cars are thus right hand drive. Meaning that the steering wheel is on the right hand side of the car. If you’re from North America, Europe or any other area that drives on the left, then this may feel very different from what you’re used to!

Roads in the UK are generally well-maintained. Signs measure distances in miles rather than kilometres. In the interests of safety, it’s a good idea to look at the Highway Code before you set off, as this will familiarise you with the rules of the road in the UK.

We recommend preparing to drive in the UK with Tripiamo which is the most comprehensive guide for Americans driving abroad.

Their guides include instructional videos and interactive 360-degree driving tours and will teach you everything you need to know about driving abroad, from reading road signs to avoiding fines. Drive safely and confidently in the UK with the help of Tripiamo.

7 best UK road trip itineraries

This suggested road trip itinerary for the UK commences in Oxford. If you make all the stops, you’ll visit the Cotswolds, Bath, Salisbury, Stonehenge , Portsmouth, Winchester, Brighton, Dover and Canterbury. 

• Heathrow/Oxford -> The Cotswolds -> Bath -> Salisbury & Stonehenge -> optional Portsmouth and/or Winchester -> Brighton -> Dover -> Canterbury 

Depending on whether you want to embark on your road trip right away or spend some time in London first, you can collect a hire car for this Cotswolds and southern England road trip either at Heathrow Airport or in Oxford.

Don’t bother trying to drive in central London – it’s congested, expensive and almost completely devoid of any parking whatsoever!

Here’s where to stop when you want to explore the Cotswolds and the south of England. As well as five of the best things to do in each of these locations.

If you choose to begin in Oxford , this historic and academic city has lots to offer. It’s packed with very old buildings, including the many colleges making up the prestigious University of Oxford. Some of these were featured in the Harry Potter movies . 

Oxford also offers the Ashmolean Museum, which focuses on art and archaeology. You can also take a river cruise on the Thames, which is a lovely way to see the city. The Oxford Botanic Gardens and Arboretum are also well worth a look. 

• Oxford University and city walking tour
• Ashmolean Museum of art and archaeology
• Sightseeing river cruise on a small electric boat
• Harry Potter tour of Oxford filming locations
• Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

If you’re spending time in southern England, then you must visit the Cotswolds . This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is all greenery and honey-toned local stone, and dotted with appealing towns and villages. 

Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water are the two most popular spots, but there are so many villages you can visit. Check out the 10 best Cotswolds villages in this post, or use the suggestions below.

Find things to do and places to stay in the Cotswolds in our complete guides.

• Stow-on-the-Wold Market town with traditional pubs and antique shops
• Bourton-on-the-Water On the River Windrush with honey-toned stone buildings
• Lacock Home to Harry Potter filming locations and beautiful, ancient buildings 
• Bibury Timeless village where you can find photogenic and historic Arlington Row
• Painswick The Queen of the Cotswolds with Rococo gardens and a grand churchyard

Bath is a spa city in the west of England. It’s world famous for its original Roman Baths, handsome Georgian architecture and the Bath bun. Other top places to visit in Bath include Pulteney Bridge and the luxurious Thermae Bath Spa. 

Discover a Bath itinerary , where to stay and what to do in our Bath guides.

• City walking tour with Roman Baths entry
• Pulteney Bridge
• Thermae Bath Spa
• The Royal Crescent 
• Bath Bun at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House and Museum

Salisbury & Stonehenge

So many visitors to the UK want to see Stonehenge. The mysterious stone circle can be found close to Salisbury , making it easy to visit both. 

Salisbury is a small city with a magnificent cathedral, a good museum and a bi-weekly market. You can also enjoy views of the city from Old Sarum, two miles away. 

• Stonehenge World Heritage Site
• Salisbury Cathedral and the Magna Carta
• Salisbury Charter Market | Tuesdays and Saturdays
• The Salisbury Museum | Stonehenge and local archaeology
• Old Sarum | Deserted hilltop ruins with panoramic city views

Portsmouth – optional

An optional trip to Portsmouth will particularly appeal to anyone interested in maritime history. The city is home to the historic dockyard, the Mary Rose and HMS Victory. Other sights to see include the Spinnaker Tower, and you can shop at the Gunwharf Quays outlet centre too. 

• Spinnaker Tower
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• The Mary Rose
• HMS Victory
• Gunwharf Quays | Outlet shopping

Winchester – optional

Like Salisbury, Winchester is a small cathedral city. There’s an interesting military museum here. Other places to visit include the Winchester Science Centre, the Great Hall and Winchester College.

• Winchester Cathedral
• The Royal Green Jackets Museum
• Winchester College
• The Great Hall
• Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

Brighton makes a great day trip from London – or you can stay over as part of a road trip around the UK. With a grand pier and a pebble beach, Brighton is Britain’s most popular city by the sea. 

Things to do here include shopping at The Lanes, seeing the Royal Pavilion and going on the i360. The Seal Life Centre is also popular with families. 

• British Airways i360
• The Lanes | Cafes, shops, pubs, boutiques and restaurants
• Brighton Palace Pier
• The Royal Pavilion
• Sea Life Brighton

Dover 

Dover is best known for the iconic white cliffs, but there are other attractions here too. These include St Margarets Bay beach, Dover Castle, the Fan Bay Deep Shelter and the Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery.

• White Cliffs of Dover
• Dover Castle
• St Margarets Bay beach
• Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery
• Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Canterbury is the capital of Kent, the county known as the Garden of England. The cathedral here is a draw, and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England. 

You can also explore Westgate Gardens here, and visit Howletts Wild Animal Park or The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge with the kids.

• Canterbury Cathedral
• Westgate Gardens
• Official guided walking tour
• Howletts Wild Animal Park
• The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge 

Our wonderful Welsh itinerary begins in Oxford, in England, before heading via the Cotswolds to Bath. You can find out what to do in those locations under the Cotswolds and South of England itinerary above. Or read on to discover all that Wales has to offer. 

• Heathrow or Oxford -> The Cotswolds -> Bath -> Cardiff (optional) -> Brecon Beacons -> Barmouth -> Porthmadog -> Snowdonia -> Caernarfon -> Anglesey -> Llandudno -> Chester -> Liverpool (optional) -> Peak District -> Stratford -> Oxford/Heathrow

Cardiff is the cool capital of Wales. Top things to see here include Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, the Principality Stadium and home of Welsh rugby, and the National Museum. You can also take a Doctor Who walking tour of the city!

• Cardiff Castle
• Principality Stadium
• National Museum
• Doctor Who walking tour

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)

Bannau Brycheiniog, formally known as the Brecon Beacons, is the ideal place for outdoor sorts to stretch their legs. As well as hiking, you can cycle, try watersports, stargaze or do some rock climbing here.

• Mountain biking
• Watersports
• Rock climbing

The seaside town of Barmouth in northwest Wales is a pretty place to explore. Here you can spend time at Barmouth Beach, walk over Barmouth Bridge, see the harbour, discover Old Barmouth or hike the Taith Ardudwy Way. 

• Barmouth Beach
• Barmouth Harbour
• Taith Ardudwy Way hiking trail
• Old Barmouth
• Barmouth Bridge

Porthmadog is also a coastal town in Gwynedd. Things to do in this Welsh destination include visiting Black Rock Sands, two miles from town. You can also see the harbour village of Borth-y-Gest, Criccieth Castle, take a ride on the famous Blaenau Ffestiniog railway and spend time in the I talianate village of Portmeirion.  

• Blaenau Ffestiniog railway
• Black Rock Sands beach
• Borth-y-Gest village
• Criccieth Castle
• Portmeirion village

Snowdonia ( Eryri )

This mountainous part of northwest Wales is home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), Wales’s highest mountain.

The area is popular among hikers, and also known for the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway. Apart from exploring Eryri (Snowdonia National Park), taking a train ride and conquering the peak, you can also visit the National Slate Museum or go to Harlech beach and castle.   

• Scale Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
• National Slate Museum
• Snowdon Mountain Railway
• Harlech Castle and beach
• Eryri (Snowdonia National Park)

Caernarfon is known for its majestic castle, but there are other absorbing places to visit in this royal Gwynedd town. These include Gypsy Wood Park, the Beacon Climbing Centre and the picturesque village of Beddgelert. You can also find the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum at the castle. 

• Caernarfon Castle
• Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
• Gypsy Wood Park
• Beacon Climbing Centre
• Beddgelert village

Anglesey is an island off the northwest coast of Wales. It offers the mediaeval capital of Beaumaris, historic sites and beautiful beaches.

You can also see the Menai Suspension Bridge built by Thomas Telford, trek the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path, head to Llanddwyn Island and beach, or explore Plas Newydd House and Gardens.

• Mediaeval Beaumaris
• Menai Suspension Bridge
• Llanddwyn Island
• Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path
• Plas Newydd House and Gardens

Llandudno is a popular Welsh resort town . It has everything you’d expect from a British seaside spot, including a pier, gaming arcades, beaches and more. Here you can also add the Great Orme Tramway, North Shore Beach, Great Orme Mines and Rhiwledyn nature reserve to your to-do list. 

• North Shore Beach
• Great Orme Tramway
• Llandudno Pier
• Great Orme Mines
• Rhiwledyn nature reserve

Chester is a historic city with many Roman remains. It’s actually in England, but just a short hop over the border. Things to do here include shopping at The Rows, seeing the Roman walls and amphitheatre, visiting Chester Racecourse – which is the oldest in the UK – and ancient Chester Cathedral. 

• Roman walls
• Chester Cathedral
• The Rows shopping
• Chester Racecourse
• Roman amphitheatre

Liverpool – optional

There is so much to see and do in Liverpool . The most famous band in the world bar none came from the English city in northwestern England, and you can trace the tale of their success by visiting The Beatles Story or taking a Magical Mystery tour by bus. 

Two cathedrals, a major football stadium with a museum and the River Mersey are also musts. You can also find more things to do and places to stay in our Liverpool articles. 

• River Mersey sightseeing cruise
• Beatles Magical Mystery bus tour
• Liverpool Football Club stadium and museum
• Anglican and Catholic cathedrals
• The Beatles Story

Peak District

The Peak District National Park is another of those outdoor spaces that offer so much scope for active people. Here you can hike or bike, or follow the Pennine Bridleway on horseback. 

Visit the lovely spa town of Buxton, too, and don’t miss out on trying a Bakewell pudding in the town of the same name. This sweet treat is more widely known as a Bakewell tart, but locally is always called Bakewell pudding!

Discover where to stay in the Peak District here

• Horse riding
• Hiking the trails
• Try Bakewell pudding in Bakewell

Stratford-upon-Avon

The birthplace of William Shakespeare – the most famous playwright who ever lived – is a pretty town on the banks of the Avon river. Packed with historic and literary attractions, things to do here include seeing a play performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). 

You can also visit Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford , plus Anne Hathaway’s thatched, half-timbered cottage, or go to Stratford Butterfly Farm and the MAD (Mechanical Art & Design) Museum.

• Shakespeare’s birthplace
• Stratford Butterfly Farm
• Anne Hathaway’s cottage
• Royal Shakespeare Theatre 

England is known as “this green and pleasant land”, so seeing the countryside can be a real highlight of touring the UK. While our itinerary includes a few cities, they are small and picturesque picks that complement the countryside. 

Places to include are the Peak District, Yorkshire, the Lake District and the Cotswolds. See the above itineraries, too, for a more in-depth look at locations already featured in this guide.

• Heathrow -> Cambridge -> Peak District -> York and Yorkshire -> Lake District -> Liverpool -> Chester -> Cotswolds (and Bath) -> Salisbury/Stonehenge -> Heathrow 

Academia and punting along the River Cam are what spring to mind when anyone thinks of Cambridge . You can tour the colleges here, including King’s, and also absorb all the history on a guided walking tour. The Fitzwilliam Museum of Art and Gin Laboratory are also popular.  

• University of Cambridge tour
• The Fitzwilliam Museum
• Punting on the Cam
• Cambridge Gin Laboratory
• Historic walking tour

York and Yorkshire

The city of York and the large northern county of Yorkshire have so much to offer visitors from the UK and overseas. Head to the city for history and urban beauty, or go to the Yorkshire dales and moors to see swathes of unspoiled countryside. 

If you do visit York, don’t miss the Minster, or wandering among the shops and cafes of The Shambles. The Chocolate Story is also great for fans of the sweet stuff (and who isn’t?)

You can also find out what to do in Yorkshire and where to stay in York in our guides.

• York Minster
• Yorkshire Moors
• The Shambles | Cafes, restaurants and shops
• Yorkshire Dales
• York’s Chocolate Story

Lake District

The Lake District in Cumbria is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The area is known for its dramatic bodies of water, and it is dotted with historic market towns. The Lakes also has literary associations, a thriving foodie scene and lots of camping shops. 

Things to do include sampling sticky toffee pudding (it was invented here), discovering the history of Peter Rabbit author Beatrix Potter, walking to Aira Force waterfall and visiting Lake Windermere. 

Discover where to stay in the Lakes and the best towns and villages in our Cumbria articles

• Lake Windermere
• The World of Beatrix Potter
• Aira Force waterfall.
• Try sticky toffee pudding
• Beatrix Potter tour with lake cruise

There is so much to see and do in Liverpool . The most famous band in the world bar none came from the city in northwestern England, and you can trace the tale of their success by visiting The Beatles Story or taking a Magical Mystery tour by bus. 

• Heathrow/Oxford -> Cambridge -> Lincoln -> York and Yorkshire -> Whitby -> Durham -> Northumberland Coast then via Hadrian’s Wall to Lake District -> Yorkshire Dales -> Peak District -> Cotswolds -> optional Bath/Salisbury/Stonehenge -> Heathrow 

Lincoln is a little off the beaten track when it comes to British cities, but it’s a place with so much to offer. The cathedral and castle here are incredible, as are the galleries and museums.

We recommend The Museum of Lincolnshire Life and The Usher Gallery art museum, and a stroll up Steep Hill, which will lead you to the castle via shops, cafes and pubs. 

• Lincoln Cathedral
• Lincoln Castle
• The Usher Gallery
• The Museum of Lincolnshire Life

Fish and chips, colourful beach huts, Whitby Abbey, a fascinating insight into science during Victorian times and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum all await in Whitby. 

Much of the scampi consumed in the UK is caught in the waters here, so sampling fish or seafood and chips is de rigueur. Look out for goths, too, Whitby being a favoured hangout among lovers of black attire and white makeup. 

You can also find more places to go in Whitby here .

• Whitby Abbey
• Fish and chips
• Beach huts at West Cliff beach
• The Museum of Victorian Science
• The Captain Cook Memorial Museum

Durham can be somewhat overlooked, but it’s a delightful and compact university city in the north of England. The castle and cathedral are both outstanding.

Other attractions to visit include Hall Hill Farm, the Oriental Museum at Durham University, and a wander along the banks of the River Wear. 

• Hall Hill Farm
• Durham Cathedral
• Oriental Museum
• Durham Castle
• Walk along the banks of the River Wear

Northumberland

Northumberland is England’s hidden coastal gem. It also has more castles than any other county. Think windswept, near-deserted beaches, cliff-top castles and rolling countryside, and you get the idea.

There are some breathtaking buildings to visit, such as Cragside in Rothbury and the castles. The Alnwick Garden is also well worth your time. 

Also discover the best places to stay and top coastal cottages in Northumberland

• Bamburgh Castle
• Alnwick Castle
• Alnwick Garden
• Northumberland coast

Hadrian’s Wall

The Hadrian’s Wall site of Vindolanda features Roman remains, and is one of the key spots to visit when travelling between Northumberland and Cumbria. The Roman fort at Birdoswald is also worth stopping for. You can also follow various trails in the area, or drop into the Roman Army Museum. 

• The Chesters Trail
• Roman Army Museum
• The Corbridge Trail
• Birdoswald Roman fort

• London -> pick up car at Heathrow -> Cotswolds and Stratford -> Peak District  -> York and Yorkshire -> Durham -> Northumberland -> Edinburgh 

Also, discover the best places to stay and top coastal cottages in Northumberland

Scotland’s capital city is steeped in history, has swathes of glorious Georgian architecture, and scenic parks and squares. There’s also world-class dining and shopping, and the mediaeval Royal Mile. Also not to be missed are Edinburgh Castle and the New Town. You could also take a Harry Potter walking tour or a city tour by hop-on, hop-off bus.

Also find the best ghost tours of Edinburgh , top Edinburgh tips , and great Edinburgh accommodation options

• Edinburgh Castle
• Hop-on, hop-off bus tour
• Royal Mile | The Old Town
• Magical Harry Potter walking tour
• New Town | Elegant Georgian architecture

If you want to explore the sun-drenched (well sometimes) southwest of England, check out our southwest corner road trip itinerary here . 

For 10, 14 and 18-day Scotland road trip itineraries, click here . 

Whether you want to drive around the UK for a week, ten days, a fortnight or longer, we hope this guide has inspired you to visit this glorious land.

With so much to see and do yet relatively short distances between places, you really can pack a lot into a short time when visiting the UK.

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The Most Perfect One Week Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: September 21, 2023

A driving holiday in Yorkshire is the perfect place to take a road trip in England. You can rest assured that this beautiful northern county is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

You will be able to visit medieval castles, stately homes and beautiful Yorkshire villages and towns and immerse yourself in the Yorkshire national parks, some of the most beautiful areas of countryside in the UK.

And let’s not forget the stunning coastal walks and sandy beaches in Yorkshire that are a magnet for locals and tourists in the warmer months – there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Without a doubt, Yorkshire is a fabulous destination to explore on one of the best road trips in the UK.

This post will help you to plan your Yorkshire road trip itinerary. It follows my driving route and includes where I stayed in Yorkshire and the Yorkshire attractions I visited. Depending on your schedule, it can be tweaked for you to spend either more or fewer days in Yorkshire.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Planning a Trip to Yorkshire

Epic 6-night / 7-day yorkshire road trip itinerary.

If you want to spend longer in Yorkshire, I suggest adding another day in Whitby and York.

Whitby – one night

Howardian Hills – two nights

York – one night

Harrogate – two nights

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Drive time from London to Whitby is approximately five hours, depending on traffic.

Yorkshire map.

Yorkshire is England’s largest county with a population bigger than Scotland.

We started our week-long Yorkshire road trip itinerary in Whitby and arrived in the early evening. I chose Whitby as the first stop on my itinerary as I had always wanted to see the famous Whitby Abbey and follow in Dracula’s footsteps.

Yes, you have read that correctly! Bram Stoker created Dracula after he spent time in Whitby, and the 199 steps leading from the harbour to the abbey are featured in the Dracula novel.

Supposedly, this is one of Whitby’s most popular tourist attractions, and I have to say there were plenty of people walking up and down the steps when I visited.

Of course, there are many things to do in Whitby besides vampire hunting, but Whitby Abbey is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in Yorkshire.

One night in Whitby at The Resolution Hotel

We spent our first night in Yorkshire at The Resolution Hotel. The hotel offers en-suite accommodation in the heart of Whitby and is home to the renowned Vault restaurant and Main Deck bar.

Our room at the Resolution had impressive views over the town’s rooftops to Whitby Abbey.

Whitby is the UK’s number one destination for lovers of the quintessential British seaside meal. Make sure to check out  the best fish and chip shops in Whitby  on your visit. 

Spend Day One in Whitby and the Yorkshire Moors

Whitby abbey.

There are so many attractions in Whitby, but the gothic ruins of the Benedictine monastery Whitby Abbey , are the most impressive.

Perched high on a hill above the town, the views across Whitby harbour are fabulous. Wander around the ruins, look inside the museum and visit St Mary’s church, where you will find Dracula’s grave!

Once you’ve finished exploring the abbey ruins, visit the Captain Cook Museum and learn all about the famous captain who departed Whitby to sail around the world and eventually discovered Australia!

A photo spot in Whitby is by the whalebone arch on the hill opposite Whitby Abbey. It attests to the town’s past importance in the whaling trade.

Thankfully whaling stopped a while back, but fishing in Whitby is still important to the local economy. A stroll along the pier will give you information on Whitby’s past and present maritime history.

Back in town, wander along the cobbled streets and dip into some of Whitby’s jewellery shops to see the black jet made famous as mourning jewellery by Queen Victoria. You may even find a piece to take home as a souvenir.

If you are an English Heritage membership holder , entry to Whitby Abbey is free.

Activities in Whitby

Drive time from whitby to robin hood’s bay is 15 minutes, north york moors national park.

The North York Moors is one of three national parks in Yorkshire. The other two are the Yorkshire Dales National Park and parts of the Peak District National Park.

The North York Moors have some of the most breathtaking landscapes in England, giving Yorkshire the accolade of being ‘God’s Own County’.

The North York Moors also contains one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the United Kingdom. Our first day in Yorkshire was spent driving to these different locations within the National Park.

Robin Hood’s Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay has a colourful history of smugglers and ghosts, and this sleepy fishing village on the Yorkshire coast is a delight to explore. If you have ever visited Rye in East Sussex , it will give you some idea of what Robin Hood’s Bay is like.

All along the cobbled lanes, you can see quaint cottages with brightly coloured flowers clinging to their facades.

The charm continues with independent shops, art galleries, and old-world pubs peeping out from their precarious positions along the steep hill that leads down to the beach.

The large sandy beach is picture-perfect, with fishing boats bobbing on the water and children scouring rock pools for signs of sea creatures.

I bought ice cream from local favourite “Dollies sweet shop” before paddling in the sea and enjoying the calming views.

There are two walking routes in the area to explore. One is part of “The Cleveland Way” and is an iconic seven mile-track from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby.

The second walk is a shorter 1.5-mile trail from Robin Hood’s Bay to Fylinghall and is part of the longer “The Cinder Track”. This disused railway track has incredible views of Yorkshire’s countryside and coastline.

Drive Time from Robin Hood’s Bay to Rosedale is 45 minutes

A stunning Yorkshire scenic drive is through the moors and down the winding country lanes in Rosedale en route to the charming Dale Head Farm Tea Garden .

Home-baked cakes, many made to ancient Yorkshire recipes, will have your mouth-watering. Order from the counter, sit in the picturesque garden and relax!

Afterwards, head to Rosedale Bank Top Kilns in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park for incredible views. Bring a picnic, follow the steep road from Rosedale and park the car by Bank Top Kilns.

You will get the most stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside from here, with only sheep for company!

Walkers might like to follow the Rosedale Trail and discover how this sleepy area was once a hub of industry in the Iron Age.

In the late afternoon, head to the Howardian Hills for your next two nights in Yorkshire.

Drive Time from Rosedale to the Howardian Hills – 40 minutes

Two nights’ accommodation at the librarians cottage on the castle howard estate, spend day two in the howardian hills, drive time from the howardian hills to rievaulx abbey – 20 minutes, rievaulx abbey.

Rievaulx Abbey dates back to 1132AD and remains one of the most complete of England’s abbey ruins. The ruins are spectacular, and the site is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy a picnic or refreshments from the cafe.

There is a popular scenic 7-mile circular walking route from  Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey  for keen walkers.

Parking for Rievaulx Abbey can be found on-site or in the nearby privately-owned field. There is a small parking fee for both locations.

How to find Rievaulx Abbey : Rievaulx, Nr Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5LB

If you are an English Heritage membership holder , entry to Rievaulx Abbey is free.

Richmond is an elegant market town in the Yorkshire Dales, is 950 years old and was the first location in the world to be given the place name Richmond.

It also holds the title of having the best-preserved Norman castle in England, so with credentials like those, you will want to add this historic town to your Yorkshire road trip itinerary.

Like many Yorkshire towns, its central hub is the cobbled marketplace lined with Georgian and Victorian architecture and home to quite a few pubs from what I saw!

There are several walks in Richmond and numerous hiking trails to discover in the surrounding Yorkshire Dales.

One takes you through the town and down to the small waterfalls in the local park. Watch out in summer as this area becomes a magnet for teenagers!

If you want to see the ruins of Easby Abbey, you can walk the mile-long route alongside the River Swale. The ruins date back to the 12th century and are maintained by English Heritage .

When it’s time for refreshments, head to The Station , a converted Victorian railway station by the local leisure centre’s car park. It has a cafe and ice-cream parlour, some art and craft exhibits and if you fancy watching a film, it even has a cinema. 

Drive Time from Richmond to Wensleydale is 45 minutes

Wensleydale.

Fans of Wallace and Gromit will know that Wensleydale is the home of these animated characters.

It is a typical Yorkshire village, with its main tourist attraction being the Wensleydale Creamery, where Cistercian monks first started making Wensleydale cheese in 1150.

There are several pubs in Wensleydale if you want to stop for lunch and a pint.

Drive Time from Wensleydale to Castle Bolton – 20 minutes

Bolton castle.

Bolton Castle is a spectacular medieval fortress preserved in outstanding condition. It is situated in the heart of Wensleydale, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The castle was built in the 14th century as one of England’s finest and most luxurious homes.

Visitors to the castle can see the medieval Mary Garden (Catholic Garden), herb garden, vineyard & maze, rose gardens & falconry displays. The adult entry fee for the castle and gardens is £12.50

How to find Bolton Castle : Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 4ET

In the late afternoon, head back to the Howardian Hills.

Spend Day Three in the Howardian Hills

From the Librarian’s Cottage , it was a quick 5-minute drive to the magnificent Castle Howard stately home and grounds.

Castle Howard

Castle Howard is one of Britain’s most beautiful privately-owned stately homes and one of the grand palaces of Europe. The sprawling estate covers over and has been home to the Howard family for the last 300 years and is a must-visit on a Yorkshire road trip.

Fans of the Netflix series Bridgerton might spot that parts of the series were filmed in this location.

The estate comprises a manor house, extensive grounds, mesmerising lakes, a walled garden, folly temples and a wooded area.

There is an adventure playground for younger family members, and for refreshments, there are several eateries and a fantastic farm shop selling local Yorkshire products.

Castle Howard should be on every Yorkshire itinerary as it is a jewel in Yorkshire’s crown.

We spent around 5 hours at Castle Howard. This time included going inside the house, wandering around the grounds, having lunch and relaxing by the lake.

How to find Castle Howard: Castle Howard Estate, York, YO60 7DA

Drive Time from Castle Howard to Yorkshire Lavender – 10 minutes

Yorkshire lavender.

I love visiting the UK’s most beautiful lavender farms , and Yorkshire Lavender was no exception. The owners have put a lot of thought into how they have planted their lavender, creating a beautiful setting with the backdrop of rolling Yorkshire hills.

A gift shop selling everything you can think of relating to lavender is sure to impress. I ended up buying up half the shop myself, but then I do love lavender!

A small cafe selling light bites, ice creams and drinks is also on-site.

Find Yorkshire Lavender in Terrington, York, YO60 6PB

Spend Day Four in York

Head to york, drive time from howardian hills to york – 30 minutes, one night accommodation in york at the travelodge mickelgate.

Travelodge at Micklegate Hotel was a 10-minute walk from the famous York landmarks. 

We chose a travel lodge for our night in York because it had free on-site parking. This is a massive bonus in York, as parking spots are hard to find. We arrived well before our check-in time and were able to park the car at the hotel and go out to explore York.

Explore the City of York

No Yorkshire road trip would be complete without visiting York, one of England’s favourite cities and one of the most amazing places in the UK, for a one-night break.

It is steeped in history, and there are so many things to do in York, from exploring the famous city walls and the must-see York Minster Cathedral to visiting York Castle Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre and the York Dungeons.

For Harry Potter fans, a guided tour along The Shambles and a look at the HP shops will be on every muggle’s bucket list.

While taking an evening ghost tour or themed witches tour around Britain’s most haunted city is a must for all visitors to York. You won’t believe how many ghosts and ghouls wander around this medieval city!

We spent the day in York and enjoyed walking the city walls, looking in the shops, visiting York Minster Cathedral and enjoying lunch and a glass of wine at Merchants Adventurers Hall.

We booked a ghost tour in the evening and then had one of York’s famous Yorkshire pudding roast dinners.

When in York you just have to try this famous dish!

Activities in York

Spend day five in york.

We had a few hours to kill this morning and so headed back into York city centre for breakfast/brunch.

We chose to eat at Brew and Brownie as it had such good reviews – it turned out too good as we had to queue for a table! I have to say it was very good and worth the accolade of York’s best breakfast restaurant.

Afterwards, we went to York Castle Gardens to see the ruins and walk along the river.

It is a peaceful spot in an otherwise very busy city. And before leaving York, I had to pop into one of the most beautiful shops in York – The Yorkshire Soap Company – to buy some of their beauty products.

We didn’t make it to Betty’s Tea Rooms as our time in York had come to an end. However, do visit there if you have more time to spare.

Head to Harrogate

Drive time from york to harrogate – 45 minutes, two nights’ accommodation in harrogate at rudding park hotel.

Visitors can find Harrogate accommodation availability and pricing here on Booking.com

Spend Day Six in Harrogate

Harrogate is home to some of the best attractions in Yorkshire and a firm favourite for visitors to North Yorkshire. The Victorian spa town is a good spot for shoppers with a good range of independent and high street chain stores. 

Betty’s Cafe Tearooms  is a destination in its own right and began its story in Harrogate in 1919. The cafe started by selling Yorkshire’s famous ‘Fat Rascal’ scones before evolving into Harrogate’s must-visit attraction.

Harrogate is best known as a spa town for its  Victorian Turkish Spa Baths , dating back to 1897 and fully restored to their former glory. Spend some time relaxing in the warm baths before indulging in a full body massage – heaven!

Harrogate and its surrounding area are rich in historical sites, from medieval castles to stately homes and not forgetting  Fountains Abbey , Britain’s best-preserved monastic   abbey ruins, only a short drive away.

Spend Day Seven in the Yorkshire Dales

Check out of your harrogate hotel and continue your yorkshire road trip to pateley bridge., drive time from harrogate to pateley bridge – 30 minutes, pateley bridge.

Pateley Bridge is a small market town in Nidderdale near Harrogate. It is just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is so pretty you can’t help but like it.

Comprising one main road lined with several independent shops, the first is the oldest sweet shop in England, dating back to the 17th century. Follow the  Pateley Bridge Heritage Trail  and find some other fascinating locations in the town.

Walk from the car park to the top of the road, and you will come across  Cocoa Joe’s , the chocolate drinks specialist. You can choose the origin of chocolate that you want your chocolate drink made from ( I chose Venezuela), and it was delicious.

A walk through the Pateley Bridge park and along the river is a relaxing way to spend a while or follow the hour-long Bewerley walking trail to Fishpond wood.

And before you leave this charming town, grab a bite to eat at The Bridge Inn, located by the bridge and river.

Drive Time from Pateley Bridge to Haworth – 60 minutes

Haworth and the bronte waterfall walk.

Haworth is a beautiful village in West Yorkshire and famous for being the home of the Bronte sisters.

The number one Haworth attraction is the Bronte Parsonage Museum, a look at the Bronte family’s lives in the early 1900s.

The rough and rugged Yorkshire landscape around the village inspired the setting of Wuthering Heights.

Haworth Railway Station is another great place to visit on a Yorkshire road trip and was the location for the iconic 1970s film ‘The Railway Children ‘. Watch the steam trains chugging past on their route through the Yorkshire countryside.  

Stroll through Bronte Country

For walkers, there are plenty of chances to enjoy the Yorkshire landscape. 

Top Withens Walk is a popular Yorkshire Dales walk and takes you out of Haworth along signposted pathways to the moorland that inspired the Brontes to write their epic novels. 

The Railway Children was also filmed in Haworth, and visitors can find a walking route map following locations from the film here.

Bronte Waterfall Walk is another charming walk to do and does not entail the climb up to Top Withens (I chose this as the easier option)

It takes you through the beautiful countryside and finishes with a small bridge and waterfall. Along the waterfall route, there is uneven terrain that is only suitable for walkers who are steady on their feet.

To reach the waterfall, the walk is 45 minutes from Haworth High Street or a 30-minute walk from Penistone Country Park, where you can park your car.

Following our final walk in Yorkshire, we climbed back into the car and started our journey home. Yorkshire has been a real eye-opener and one of the best UK road trips I have experienced.

Drive Time from Haworth to London – 4 hours and 30 minutes

Are you looking for yorkshire accommodation, please read my post: best yorkshire accommodation for a 7-night road trip ., are you interested in visiting other towns and villages in yorkshire, please read my post: 13 most stunning places to visit in yorkshire.

Or why not head to Leeds or Sheffield to explore the urban sights in two of Yorkshire’s most famous cities?

Please Pin for Future Travel to Yorkshire !

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Saturday 21st of May 2022

This looks like a divine road trip, Angela! I can see myself enjoying every moment.

Linda (LD Holland)

We always planned to do a long road trip when we get to England for a long visit; I now have some great spots to add for the Yorkshire part of our route. And a better idea of how much time we might need! Castles would certainly be the draw. But great to know that there are some great national parks we need to have on the plan. I am always fascinated by abbey ruins and how much is left standing.

Friday 20th of May 2022

I would absolutely love this one week Yorkshire road trip! So many beautiful and historic sites to see along the way.

WhereAngieWanders

I am glad you enjoyed reading this post. You are right, there are some really special places to visit in Yorkshire. I wonder if you had a favourite from the itinerary that you would particularly like to see?

10 Best Stops on the London to Cornwall Drive

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Going on a London to Cornwall drive is one of the best road trips you could take in the beautiful southwest of England.

Home to some of the world’s most famous historic sites, incredible coastline, beautiful national parks, and some of the best weather in Britain, there is no denying that heading southwest on your next England road trip is a great idea.

So next time you’re planning a trip to the seaside and have your heart set on exploring some charming Cornish villages, consider making more of a road trip of it and enjoy some of these amazing stops when driving to Cornwall.

Table of Contents

Planning a London to Cornwall Road Trip

First and foremost, if you don’t have your own vehicle and want to go on a trip from London to Cornwall, you’re going to need to hire a car.

While there are countless car hire companies out there, if you want to save time while finding a low price, we recommend using Rentalcars.com. This platform aggregates great deals across many car hire companies, making booking a car hire quick and easy.

It can also be a good idea to take out an excess insurance policy through iCarHireInsurance to ensure that you’re completely covered should any damage happen to your rental vehicle and also to avoid the high fees imposed by purchasing insurance directly through the rental company.

Though you will be driving through some beautiful rural countryside and breathtaking national parks, this is a fairly populated part of England and you won’t be far from service stations, pubs, or restaurants along the way so there is really no reason to worry about when you might be able to fill up on petrol or find a toilet or bite to eat.

How Far is London to Cornwall?

The distance on the drive from London to Cornwall is approximately 283 miles (455 kilometres) and should only take about 5-6 hours however, there are countless incredible places to stop along the way that can make the journey to Cornwall almost better than the destination in and of itself.

If you’re going to be making any of these stops, you’re going to want to plan for more time. While you don’t necessarily need to find a place to spend the night en route if you plan to make a few of these stops, it’s probably best to plan to do it in two days.

Leave London in the morning on the first day, spending a night at a halfway point (Bournemouth can be a great option!) and then continuing onto the rest of the stops on the second day before you reach your Cornish destination in the evening.

London to Cornwall Drive Stops

Portsmouth, hampshire.

The first stop is actually a slight bit of a detour from the typical route, however, it is very much worth including and making your way here to start out your road trip.

Portsmouth is a historic port city situated on its own island in Hampshire. As home to the Royal Navy, there is a lot of British maritime history here to explore and learn about, particularly the HMS Victory (used by Admiral Lord Nelson in the Battle of Trafalgar) and the Mary Rose, which dates back to the Tudor Era.

Portsmouth isn’t all naval history, however. It is also home to ultra-modern Spinnaker Tower — a 557-foot (170 metres) skyscraper that provides incredible views of Portsmouth and its harbour.

Southampton, Hampshire

If you decide to forgo Portsmouth and stay on a very typical route from London to Cornwall, then Southampton makes a logical first stop. However, it does well to be the second stop on this drive, as well!

Southampton is located just a bit east of Portsmouth and is another historic port city worth visiting. Known for being the port where the Titanic began its fateful journey across the Atlantic, Southampton has a lot to offer beyond that. A lot of maritime history, heaps of seaside charm and lots of interesting museums, pubs, theatres, parks and even more.

Though it isn’t a destination many people spend much time in, Southampton is quite lovely and really worth exploring for a bit while en route to Cornwall from London.

Salisbury, Wiltshire

The biggest detour from the main route is to Salisbury, a historic town in Wiltshire in the west of England. Salisbury is known for its incredible cathedral which boasts the tallest spire in England at 404 feet or 123 metres.

Salisbury has more to offer than just its cathedral, however. Boasting a history that dates back to 3000 BCE, there is so much to learn about and explore in this charming little city

If you want to learn more about this town and region, make sure to visit the Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum.

Take the time to people-watch in the Market Square and have a meal and a pint (if you’re not driving!) in one of the many pubs in Salisbury — perhaps even the Haunch of Venison , which is the oldest public house in the city.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

No Cornwall road trip from London would really be complete without a stopover at one of England’s most famous neolithic landmarks — Stonehenge.

Located just a bit west of the village of Amesbury and a slight detour from the main road, a visit to this iconic archaeological site is something everyone must do in their lifetimes.

Though the days are gone when one could just admire this standing stone site from the road without paying the entrance fee, you can take the time to head to the visitors centre, learn about the historic significance, admire how incredible it is and ponder about what it could have been used for.

Stonehenge is arguably the most famous collection of standing stones in the world and visiting this incredible prehistoric monument is one of the best things to do in all of England.

Dating back as far as 3000 BCE, scientists still don’t know the exact purpose for this iconic structure, but that certainly doesn’t take away from the magic and mystery of the place.

Bournemouth, Dorset

Getting back to the coastal road, we have our next stop on our road trip, the beautiful city of Bournemouth!

Bournemouth is one of the favourite seaside destinations in all of the UK and locals will boast that is has the best beach in England. As you’re en route to Cornwall, you will certainly see plenty of beaches that will rival this declaration, however, there is no denying that Bournemouth makes for an excellent stop.

Thomas Hardy once described Bournemouth as a “Mediterranean resting place on the English channel” and, boasting some of the best weather in England, it isn’t hard to see why. Bournemouth has been a popular resort for Brits looking for a seaside escape for centuries and it became particularly popular as a spa town during the Victorian era.

Bournemouth is best known for its expansive sandy beach, however, there are several other elements that make it a good destination to visit. The town itself is absolutely lovely and worth exploring, there are beautiful gardens to wander in and countless pubs to have in which to have a meal or a pint.

All in all, Bournemouth makes for an absolutely unmissable stop to make when driving from London to Cornwall. It’s also a great place to spend the night with many accommodation choices such as this charming seaside cottage .

Weymouth, Dorset

Another beautiful Dorset coastal town, Weymouth is the perfect stop if you’re looking for something smaller and a bit more quaint than Bournemouth.

Oozing with charm and also boasting some of the most beautiful beaches, Weymouth is an excellent place to get some classic British seaside charm.

Weymouth both has incredible sandy beaches that are safe and sheltered to swim in and a busy port town to explore, boasting the best of both worlds if you want to explore the seaside outside of Cornwall.

It is also considered to be the gateway to the Jurassic Coast — an area of England known for its pebbly beaches that are littered with fossils.

Bridport, Dorset

Another charming town along the Jurassic Coast, Bridport is small but bustling and makes for the perfect place to stop off and stretch your legs while driving Cornwall to London or vice versa.

Though it isn’t a typical “tourist town,” Bridport is a quintessential West Country seaside town and has everything that those entail — a lively market square, a handful of inviting pubs, and enough fish and chips shops to ensure that you will never go hungry.

So if you’re looking for an offbeat and quick stop on the Cornwall to London drive, Bridport makes a good bet.

Exeter, Devon

As the county town of Devon and the administrative capital of the entire region, no London to Cornwall road trip would be complete without a stop in lovely Exeter. This bustling town is the largest city in Devon and has many sights and interesting places worth exploring.

The Exeter Cathedral is the most well-known landmark and this beautiful Gothic church is well worth visiting.

There are also countless other small medieval-era churches to visit, beautiful town squares and an undeniable English charm that is sure to delight.

Dartmoor National Park, Devon

If you’re sick of exploring historic towns and would rather stretch your legs and get walking in some nature, then you’re sure to love Dartmoor National Park. Stick to the A30 and you’ll find one of the best natural stops when your travel from London to Cornwall,

Known for its ambling moors and packed with prehistoric stone circles, Dartmoor is filled with both history and beauty. Fans of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle are sure to be happy to visit Dartmoor as it serves as the partial setting for the famous Sherlock Holmes novel The Hound of the Baskervilles .

You can do countless walks in Dartmoor, ranging from easy walks that only last for an hour or two or multi-day treks that can see you venturing from pub to pub, small village to small village. Dartmoor is known for its countless prehistoric remains, but also make sure to keep an eye out for wild ponies!

If you want to get out of the car and ramble through the Devonshire countryside, there is no better place to do that than in Dartmoor National Park.

Plymouth, Devon

Finally, our last stop before you get to Cornwall is Plymouth, the last town you’ll reach before entering Cornwall! This port city is packed with fascinating maritime history and it’s worth getting out of the car and spending some time here to learn about it.

Plymouth is the town where, in 1588, Sir Francis Drake led the British Navy off to defeat the Spanish Armada. It is also where the first English pilgrims took off from in 1620 on the Mayflower to escape religious persecution before arriving in the New World — Plymouth, Massachusetts, that is!

These days, Plymouth has several interesting museums and historic sites to explore along with a charming seaside and lovely town to wander through. So if you’re looking for one of the best places to stop en route to Cornwall, make sure to include Plymouth on your itinerary!

Where to Stay on the London to Cornwall Drive

If you want to make this road trip longer than one day, you will need to find a great place to rest your head. We personally think that Bournemouth makes that perfect halfway stop on this road trip as it has a lot of accommodation options and is an interesting destination in its own right.

If you’re looking for accommodation in London, we have a great guide on the best areas and places to stay in the British capital!

Where to Stay in Bournemouth

The Newark — Located a stone’s throw away from the Bournemouth beach and within easy walking distance of all other top attractions, there are a range of comfortable and clean rooms available and a full English breakfast made fresh each morning.

Royal Exeter Hotel — This swanky hotel is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a bit more luxury on your road trip to Cornwall. Located within easy walking distance to the beach and promenade, they have countless plush rooms available and a bar and fitness centre on site.

Private Rental – This charming seaside cottage is a great option but there are also some other private rooms and apartments available to rent.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Bournemouth!

Where to Stay in Cornwall

The Dolphin Tavern – This traditional inn in Penzance is the perfect place to rest your head on your Cornish holiday. Situated right on the coast, they have a handful of cosy rooms and a great breakfast included each morning.

Palma Guest House – This guest house located in St Ives is situated directly on the back and boasts incredible views from their comfortable and clean rooms. Great for couples, this makes for a perfect base in Cornwall .

Selkies NQY   – This luxury hotel in Newquay is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Situated within a few minutes’ walking distance from the beach, there are a range of great rooms available and a bar on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Cornwall!

Planning a road trip from London to Cornwall doesn’t have to consist of solely figuring out which motorway to take. There are countless interesting places to stop and visit when driving out west and it’s very much worth taking the time to see them!

Are you planning on visiting Cornwall from London? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in the Yorkshire Dales Itinerary

Is London Expensive? London Trip Cost Guide in 2024

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, Maggie! We’ll be driving from Canterbury to Cornwall for part of our first visit to England. This article is just what I needed — thanks for the fantastic ideas! Question – I’m looking for a local tour around Cornwall/Penzance and other towns. Would be fun to do a Poldark places thing – along with the throngs of other fans. LOL! Have you encountered any local tours or small group tours we can join there? Thanks!!

Would love to drive and do this trip 10 stops from London to Cornwall. Can u do it in one week in the car or should you take more time. Coming from Australia and making plans cheers barb metcalfe

You could easily make these stops throughout the course of a week 🙂

This is very helpful! I want to take my family to Cornwall this summer! Is late-June a good time to go? And have you been to/heard anything about Watergate Bay Resort?

June is a fantastic time to go to Cornwall, Ashlee! Hope you have a lovely time 🙂

Great idea, never thought of stopping at different places along the route, it’s better than stopping by at Road Chef Services.

Thanks, Saf! Glad you enjoyed 🙂

Very interesting

Glad you found it helpful, Barry!

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Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes

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The tiny country of England is famous for its long history, the Royal family and quaint traditions. It is also known for impossibly pretty villages, hedgerow-lined country lanes and a wonderfully diverse landscape and coastline, all of which make England a must for travelers.

Perfect for a road trip, England is small enough to get around easily, meaning you can see more of the country in less time! From the capital city of London, most of the country and its attractions can be reached by car in a day!

We’re Brits who are addicted to being on the road and have years of experience road tripping in England. We got together with some road trip pals and have put together a round-up of our favourite road trips in England for you, to help you see the very best of this amazing country.

Are You in the Right Place?

England is a country of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland , also known as the United Kingdom or UK for short. The other countries in this sovereign state are Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Great Britain is not a country but a landmass, which is home to the countries of England, Scotland and Wales.

The British Isles is the name of the group of islands which are made up of Great Britain, the entire island of Ireland, The Isle of Man, The Isles of Scilly, The Channel Islands (including Guernsey, Jersey, Sark and Alderney) and lots of other much smaller islands.

So, if you’re looking for road trips around the rest of the UK , in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, check out these awesome posts. If you’re in the right place, then read on for the very best English road trips!

• For Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coastal Route >>> Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
• For the North Coast 500 , Loch Ness , Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands >>> Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
• For the Brecon Beacons National Park and Snowdonia National Park >>> Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary

Getting to England

Fly into London’s airports of Heathrow, Gatwick, Standted and Luton for the south of England, Birmingham for the Midlands and Newcastle and Manchester for the north of England. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

You can hire a car  at any of these airports and be on your chosen UK driving route within an hour of landing. Book your rental car well in advance and use a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.  How?  Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in the UK. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Best Time to Take an England Road Trip

December to february.

The winter months in England are generally cold and wet. It is likely to be even colder and wetter, and possibly snowy, in the north, which can cause disruption on the roads. Although other visitors will be thin on the ground, this would be our least favourite time to road trip England!

March to May

Late spring is a wonderful time for visiting England, as the cold and wet retreats. Wildflowers appear, baby animals abound and life picks up a lively pace again – we Brits even start to wear t-shirts! But, remember that England is so lush because it rains, so always be prepared for a downpour, or a few drizzly days at this time of year.

June to August

Summer brings sunshine to all of England, with Devon and Cornwall getting the best of the warm Gulf Stream weather. The south coast enjoys the hottest summer with temperatures well into the 70s, whilst East Anglia is the driest part of the country. This is the perfect time to road trip around England, especially if you want to stop and hike or spend time enjoying the beautiful coastline.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit England . The roads will be quieter but the weather still warm, and the glorious colours of autumn bring vibrancy to the countryside. Don’t leave your trip to England too late though, it will be cold and wet again by mid-October!

Is this your first time visiting the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

The Best Road Trips in England

The yorkshire coast.

Explored by Hannah of Get Lost Travel Blog

For some of the most diverse and dramatic views on an England roadtrip, you’ll want to explore the Yorkshire coast. This seven day road trip will take you from the seaside town of Whitby to the stunning nature reserve at Spurn Point, as you meander between the eastern edge of the desolate North York Moors and the coast.

Stops along the route include Robin Hood’s Bay, Scarborough, Filey, Flamborough and Hornsea. However, with so many beautiful stops available on the Yorkshire coast, you can easily customise the trip to fit your preferences.

The Yorkshire coast is renowned for its striking natural beauty and undulating bays and headlands, created by the unique geology of the coastline. This road trip includes the best seaside towns, shingle and sandy beaches and natural wonders along the coast.

To make the most of each stop on the trip, you will ideally want to spend one night at each destination. However, Whitby’s charm and Scarborough’s nostalgia could easily tempt you to extend your stay to two nights in both these locations. 

• Whitby is a charming seaside town full of unique handicraft stores and spectacular cliff-top views. Similarly, the neighbouring Robin Hood’s Bay is a smaller but equally enchanting town you don’t want to miss. 
• One of the oldest seaside resorts in the UK, Scarborough is a town packed with the nostalgia of a traditional British seaside escape. From donkey rides on the beach and penny arcades to fish and chips and fairground rides, you’ll find plenty of memorable  things to do in Scarborough .
• The final stop on the road trip is the remarkable Spurn Point. This narrow peninsula is over three miles long but only 50 metres wide in parts. It is an incredible walking trail and nature reserve to explore.

The Lake District

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

The rugged Lake District in Cumbria is known as ‘Wordsworth Country’ and boasts some of the most scenic roads in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re looking to get away from it all or have an adventure, this road trip has something for everyone, and is one of the best road routes in England for active families and couples.

Head for the busy towns of Ambleside and Keswick or find peace and quiet by one of the sixteen beautiful bodies of water in this stunning English national park. Enjoy great hiking, biking and outdoor activities in the warmer months, or spend time on the water, with boat hires, kayaking and SUP all on offer. 

Start your Lake District road trip at Ullswater, the second largest of the national parks lakes. Ullswater is nestled amongst some of the best fells the area has to offer and is home to the stunning Aira Force waterfall.

To the west of Ullswater, Keswick is a busy market town that lies between the natural beauty of Derwentwater and the imposing Skiddaw mountains.

Hike up to the prehistoric Castelrigg stone circle, literally surrounded by fells and sky in every direction, or try an easy trail like Catbells, which also has the added benefit of incredible views of the rugged and far-reaching landscape.

At the southern end of Derwentwater is the valley of Borrowdale, leading to the Honister Pass and the home of the Honister Slate Mine, the last working slate mine in England.

The mine has a visitor centre which provides underground guided mine tours and a range of adventure activities including a Via Ferrata (by ropes) course, a ropes course actually in the mine and a daring infinity bridge – kids big and small will love it here!

• Fell walking around the Lake District will reward you with magnificent views and you’ll get to see the lesser visited parts of this busy national park – conquering Hellvellyn is at the top of the list of best Lake District hikes.
• Seeking out all of the eighteen waterfalls the Lake District National Park has to offer – best done in spring so you can enjoy the cascades in full flow!
• Getting out on the water, whether that’s in a boat or kayak, or on a paddle board, or even going for a swim, the lakes are what this glorious part of England is all about.

RELATED POST: Europe Road Trip – 16 Incredible Routes

London To Salisbury

Explored by Ann of The Road is Life

There are so many incredible sights to see and fascinating history to be discovered surrounding London. From historic cities to charming English villages and ancient monuments, the best way to see these highlights is by embarking on an England road trip. If you’re seeking an exciting adventure beyond the city, this epic  one week road trip from London  is just for you!

Departing from London, this road trip itinerary runs in a loop and passes through a few of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages, the historic cities of Oxford and Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge and the majestic Salisbury Cathedral.

Each of these places has its own story to tell; take your time wandering the cobbled streets, stopping for a drink in a medieval pub and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of village life.

• Only one hour from London, the first place to stop is Oxford. Admire the impressive architecture and learn all about the oldest university in the English-speaking world! Not far from Oxford, the medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where you’ll take a step back in time and walk in the footsteps of William Shakespeare!
• Spending a few days exploring the lovely Cotswolds villages will be a big highlight of your English road trip. Some of the must-see villages to include on your itinerary are Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Castle Combe. Driving through this region is truly stunning as you pass through rolling green hills and picturesque scenery. 
• Once you finish up in the Cotswolds, make your way to the city of Bath to marvel at the incredible history by visiting the Roman Baths. On the way back to London, make sure to stop at Stonehenge, followed by a visit to the equally as impressive Salisbury Cathedral.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting England . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices and excellent service.

The Atlantic Highway

Explored by Trisha of P.S. I’m On My Way

When I was  living in London , I discovered so many road trips but the Atlantic Highway is my favorite. It is one of the best England road trips to do during the summer. In this itinerary, you will get to see the southwest coastal route of England.

Starting in Bath, I would suggest doing this road trip for seven days but if you don’t have more time, five days will do. You have to check the stops I recommended here to see how many days you want to stay in each location, but for you to have an idea, I did one night at each stop.

Bath Highlights

• Don’t miss the Roman Baths, the ancient complex built by the Romans which Bath is famous for. You can’t actually get in the famous waters here, but you can at the wonderful rooftop pool of the Thermae Bath Spa , an indulgent treat.
• Visit Bath Abbey and climb the 212 steps up its iconic tower to learn and see more of the church and city. 
• Literature geeks, the Jane Austen Center is a must when in Bath! Both ‘Persuasion’ and ‘Northanger Abbey’ are partly set in Bath, a city that Jane Austen called home for five years.

Bristol Highlights

• Take a boat trip in the Floating Harbour. There are many thematic boat cruises to choose from wildlife cruising to visiting the Avon Gorge or a simple afternoon tea cruise on the River Avon.
• In England, you’ll never really know when it rains so a suggested activity will be visiting Bristol museums like Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, MShed, and Arnolfini. 
• Bristol has a great nightlife scene so if you’re feeling like checking out some bars, pubs, and even big clubs, I suggest having a cocktail at The Milk Thistle .

From Bristol, slowly head to Somerset, picking up the A39 coast road. I love Somerset and there are many more things to see and do here compared to other destinations.

Somerset Highlights

• Explore National Trust Dunster Castle , a former motte and bailey castle and now a spectacular country house, which was home to the Luttrell family for 600 years.
• Marvel at the dramatic Chedder Gorge, home of the delicious cheese of the same name.
• Visit the Wookey Hole Caves in the beautiful Mendip Hills for an underground adventure, brilliant for families traveling with kids.

The drive through Somerset to Devon is about an hour, but in between these two destinations, you can swing by Exmoor National Park where you can actually spend the night wild camping if you’re road tripping with a tent!

I spent a whole day here and this was my favorite highlight on this road trip – there are many things to do within the park and it’s best for adventure travelers! From Exmoor, head to Devon early in the morning.

Devon Highlights

• Go to Roadford Lake in Wolf Valley where you can ride kayaks and canoes, go paddle boarding, do fishing charters, and even learn archery. 
• Test your balance and learn to surf in the big seas of North Devon at Croyde, the most popular surf spot on the coast.
• Tackle the South West Coast Path, or some of it! A great place to head for is the Valley of the Rocks, an expansive area with fantastic prehistoric rock formations & sea views.

If you have time, finish in Cornwall, where you’ll find gorgeous fishing villages like St Ives and Mousehole, St Michael’s Mount just off the coast of Penzance, glorious beaches and Land’s End, the southernmost tip of England – enough for a Cornwall road trip in itself!

RELATED POST – Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

Norfolk Coast

One of the most beautiful counties of England, Norfolk enjoys an incredible and unspoilt heritage coastline and the famous Norfolk Broads, where you will find huge skies and mesmerising landscapes, making it one of the best road trip destinations in England.

The historic city of Norwich is one of the hidden gems of Norfolk. Considered the UK’s best-preserved medieval city, Norwich boasts a fine Norman cathedral, a lively and well-respected food scene, and the Norwich Lanes, a muddle of pedestrian alleys full of independent shops and boutiques.

Head from Norwich through the Norfolk Broads , stopping at pretty Wroxham for a boat trip – by far the best way to explore. From here it’s a pretty straight road to the coast, which is dotted with blue-flag beaches and seaside towns like Cromer to explore. Inland there are castles to scramble around, gardens to admire and stately homes to discover.

As you continue along the coast, you’ll come to the more wild part of Norfolk, and the North Norfolk Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is where you’ll find the vast swathes of sand, blue seas and huge skies that the county is famous for, as well as a couple of outstanding nature reserves made up of salt marshes, sand dunes and horizons stretching far out to sea.

Stop at Blakeney to admire the traditional flint cottages, practice your crabbing skills in the harbour, or take a trip out to Blakeney Point to visit the UK’s largest Common and Grey seal colony.

On the west coast and close to King’s Lynn lies the royal estate of Sandringham. Set in beautiful woodlands, perfect for walking, you can also visit the house, gardens and transport museum before heading to see the St Mary Magdalene church, where the Queen and her family attend services when they are staying at Sandringham.

• Hiking the Norfolk Coast Path for the best views and wildlife encounters, before stopping at a coastal pub for a pie and a pint after a good day’s walking.
• Spending a day on the huge sandy beach at Wells-next-the-Sea. You’ll have an even better experience if you hire one of the colourful beach huts Wells is famous for.
• Discovering the history of Holkham Hall , one of the UK’s finest Palladian mansions, complete with its own deer park, nature reserve and beach!

For more information about all things Norfolk, visit the local’s guide to Norfolk at Norfolk Travel Guide .

Dover to Dorset

Explored by Paulina from Ukeveryday

If you are traveling from France and looking for the best road trip in England, start your journey in Dover. You can get to the port of Dover from France by ferry, or on a train using the Eurotunnel. There are beautiful white cliffs in Dover, as well as Dover Castle, from which to admire the views of this coastal town.

A road trip in England without visiting London cannot be complete, so make sure to spend at least one day in the capital. It takes around two hours to drive to London from Dover. We suggest parking on the outskirts and using public transport like the London Underground to visit the city center.

It’s easy to see the main London attractions in a day, using our London one day itinerary . Make sure not to miss the highlights of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye.

Make sure to also stop at Virginia Water which is a hidden gem just outside London. Walking around the lake and admiring beautiful flowers is one of the best  things to do in Surrey .

Next day, visit Salisbury which is a two hour drive from London. When you get there, explore the impressive Salisbury Cathedral and the pretty market town, before heading the 20 minutes north to Stonehenge. The trip to see this magical stone circle is so worth it.

On your last day, relax at Durdle Door beach. The incredibly pretty village of Lulworth, where you need to park to walk to the beach, is around an hour’s drive from Salisbury, through the beautiful rolling countryside of Wiltshire and Dorset.

This iconic landmark on the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast attracts many visitors, so make sure to arrive there early, especially in the summer months. Spend the day admiring one of the most famous natural landmarks in England, the spectacular Durdle Door arch.

• Getting an incredible bird’s eye view of the centre of London from the top of the London Eye.
• Your first view of Durdle Door as you stand at the top of the cliff path, with the sparking English channel stretching away in front of you.
• Enjoying traditional fish and chips at the end of a long day on the road.

RELATED POST – A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip.

The Yorkshire Dales

In ‘God’s Own Country’ of Yorkshire, the roads ribbon between glacial valleys, patchwork fields, flat-topped hills and rocky outcrops, punctuated by pretty villages with quaint pubs, and windswept hiking trails.

There’s history aplenty too, in this land that was once host to the War of the Roses, the bloody struggle between the royal houses of Lancaster and York.

Start in the well-heeled and elegant Georgian town of Harrogate, known then as ‘The English Spa’. On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this is a great starting point for your Yorkshire road trip.

Malhamdale is in the Pennines, at the southern end of the Yorkshire Dales. Malham itself is a pretty village, surrounded by the limestone buildings and the dry-stone walls so common in the Dales, with a stream bubbling through the centre of the village. 

Malham is best known though for the glacial lake, Malham Tarn, and the majestic Malham Cove, a vast curving amphitheatre-shaped cliff formation of limestone rock. The sheer cliff face is about 80 metres high. If you’re lucky, you may see Malham Cove waterfall, which appears in the centre of the cliff face in spring and after heavy rain.

The lush sweeping valley of Wensleydale is distinct for its wooded hillocks and rushing waterfalls, the most famous being the triple flight Aysgarth Falls and Hardraw Force, England’s largest single-drop waterfall.

The capital of Upper Wensleydale, Hawes, is a lively market town with many hotels and tearooms. Local craft and artisan industries thrive making pottery, wooden toys and the famous Wensleydale cheese, Wallace and Gromit’s favourite.

One of the northernmost dales in the national park is Swaledale, a deep and winding valley that is home to the pretty cobbled market town of Richmond, which boasts a rich and vivid history.

Sitting high above the town,  Richmond Castle  dominates the skyline. The views from the top of the massive keep are far-reaching between the hills of Swaledale to the west, the Vale of York to the south and in the far distance to the east, the stunning North York Moors.

Be aware that this whole area is a mecca for tour buses which cause major headaches both on the roads and in car parks at the most popular spots. We say avoid the summer months if you possibly can.

• Famous for its hardy breed of horned sheep, Swaledale also puts on a spectacular wildflower display in its meadows, which are a riot of wildlife and colour in June and early July.
• Discovering how cheese experts craft delicious Wensleydale cheese by hand, and how creamy Yorkshire butter is batch churned from rich Yorkshire cream at the Wensleydale Creamery .
• Wandering the pretty streets of Harrogate and stopping at the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms for afternoon tea.

The Peak District

Explored by Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road

Britain’s first national park, the Peak District is one of the best places for a road trip in England. There are plenty of amazing  things to do in the Peak District  to keep you busy. The road trip adventure starts at Sheffield and ends in Buxton, and it typically takes about four days to explore this national park. The drive following the twists and turns of Snake Pass is spectacular and rivals that other famous UK road, the Black Mountain Pass of Top Gear fame.

• Located on the banks of the river Wye, the idyllic town of Bakewell is best known for inventing the famous delicious dessert, Bakewell Pudding. The popular Monsal Trail starts from here. Just a few minute’s drive from Bakewell is the magnificent Chatsworth House . Built in the 16th century, it has been the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Once here, you can explore the grand Painted Hall, historic State Rooms and the Sculpture Gallery of the Cavendish family. They have one of the finest gardens in Britain.
• The pretty village of Castleton is situated at the head of Hope Valley in the Peak District. It is a great base to explore the famous caves and taverns of the Peak District National Park. Close to this village lies Winnats Pass, one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the UK. The road is very photogenic, having limestone ridges on either side. Also, you can hike Mam Tor hill nearby.
• Ladybower Reservoir offers plenty of opportunities to walk, cycle and fish. Located in the Upper Derwent Valley in the Peak District, the reservoir opened in 1945. For the best view of the surrounding landscapes of Hope Valley and the Ladybower Reservoir, climb the nearby Bamford Edge. It’s quite an easy hike and extremely popular with walkers and climbers in all seasons.

RELATED POST – Why We Think These Are The Best Driving Roads in Europe

The Cotswolds

Explored by Joanna of The World in My Pocket

The best way to explore the Cotswolds is by road trip. The public transport in the Cotswolds is not very reliable and, if you want to explore the best villages at your own pace, you must go there by car. 

A good way to split your Cotswolds road trip  is to explore the south one day and the north the other. For this, the best base for your day trips would be Gloucester, which is located fairly in the middle.

On the first day, you can explore the town of Gloucester, which is famous for its cathedral as well as the marina area where you will find plenty of trendy restaurants and bars. 

On the second day, explore the north of the Cotswolds. Some of the most beautiful villages here are Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh, Broadway, Bibury, and Lower Slaughter.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a very popular village and this is why it is advisable to make it your first stop of the day, to avoid the crowds. Bourton-on-the-Water also has very limited parking, which is another reason to arrive here as early as possible. 

On the third day, check out the south of the Cotswolds. The most beautiful villages here are Castle Combe, Painswick, known as the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’, Nailsworth, and the Roman town of Cirencester, the capital of the Cotswolds. 

If you have more than three days, you can always extend the road trip and spend more time in each of the villages.

• The pretty canals of water from the Windrush river as it crisscrosses picture perfect Bourton-on-the-Water.
• The iconic and very photogenic Old Mill in Lower Slaughter often touted as the prettiest village in the Cotswolds.
• The Rococo Garden in Painswick is a restored and very beautiful 18th century garden with flower & vegetable plots and a lovely cafe – one of the Cotswold’s best-kept secrets!

RELATED POST – UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes

Northumberland Coast Route

This northern England road trip takes you along the stunning Northumberland coast, passing through the beautiful landscapes and seaside fishing villages of the county.

Northumberland is home to some of England’s most dramatic castles, an iconic holy island and Hadrian’s Wall, on the border with Scotland. There is fantastic coastal walking in the region, huge sandy beaches that seem endless and a warm welcome for visitors.

Start at Alnwick for the spectacular Alnwick Castle and country house, the seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland. It was built following the Norman conquest in 1071 and renovated and remodelled a number of times, to the castle you see today.

Film and TV fans shouldn’t miss a visit here – the castle has been featured in Transformers: The Last Knight, Elizabeth, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, as the magnificent Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey, and probably most famously, Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter movies.

As you head north, spend a night in one of the traditional fishing villages such as Craster, Seahouses, Bamburgh and Beadnell.

End your trip on the tidal island of Lindisfarne , which lies off the northeast corner of England near Berwick-upon-Tweed. Also known as Holy Island, it is one of the most important centres of early English Christianity. Irish monks settled there in 635CE and the monastery became the centre of a major saint’s cult celebrating its bishop, Cuthbert.

In 793CE the Vikings attacked Lindisfarne, looting the monastery and killing or enslaving many of the monks. It was the first time the Vikings had attacked a monastic site in Britain, and the attack came as a major shock for medieval Christians.

• Hiking out to the historic island of Lindisfarne which is accessible on foot across a paved causeway, but only when the North Sea tides permit! Safe times to cross are predictable and can be found here , and the route takes around two hours to walk.
• Your first sight of Bamburgh Castle perched above its huge stretch of sandy beach.
• Enjoy a bracing beach walk and a traditional fish and chip supper from the local chippie in one of the many villages along the coast.

England Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in England.

• Search for affordable flights to England with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in England with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in England with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in England with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in England

Whether you’re road tripping England in a car, camper or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tyre is in good condition. If your England road trip itinerary is longer than a few weeks , you may want to consider a vehicle service before you go, and breakdown cover is probably a good idea.

• Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit. The general rule is that if your licence is not in Latin script, then an IDP will be required. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Your car must be considered roadworthy in the country in which it is registered.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the left if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Unlike France, the UK does not have laws that require you to carry certain equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. Ideally, you should carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
• Understand insurance options, mileage limits and fuel policies before booking a rental car.
• Check the car for damage on collection and make sure anything you spot is noted, and the same again when you drop it off.
• Remember to drive on the left during your trip to England!

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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5 of north London's most scenic walking routes

Whether it's through parks, along canals or around leafy residential backstreets, exploring the capital on foot never gets old. These five routes showcase north London at its best.

1.   Regents Canal

Distance: 6 miles   Start: Kensal Green End: Camden Town Terrain:   Flat, but the path is often busy and gets very narrow at points

Two centuries of London history have played out around the Regent’s Canal . The waterway, which celebrated its bicentenary during the nationwide lockdown last year, has born witness to epoch-defining events, including the industrial revolution and both World Wars. Its adjacent path can no longer be called under-the-radar; it’s both well-loved and well-trodden, and dodging bicycles while trying not to fall in is all part and parcel of a day out by the water.  

The whole nine-mile stretch starts from Paddington Basin and ends at Limehouse, but consider heading slightly further west for a wander around Kensal Green Cemetery first. The graveyard is one of London’s ‘Magnificent Seven ‘(among which, the more famous Highgate Cemetery and Nunhead Cemetery also feature) and a veritable labyrinth of ornate Catholic mausoleums, some decaying, others immaculate.  

From there, head through Notting Hill and past Portobello Market to link up with the canal in Maida Vale. Pause by Little Venice Pool and tip your hat to the resident swans, who often have a bevy of signets in tow in spring, before continuing up through Regents Park.  

The path cuts through London Zoo, so wildlife continues to feature; keep your eyes peeled for the warthog pen, the aviary and a couple of resident giraffes peering over their enclosure. Continuing on into Camden, this stretch of the canal is lined with particularly pretty house boats, often painted myriad colours and covered in flowers.

2.   Epping Forest Centenary Walk

Distance: 6.5 miles Start: Manor Park End: Chingford Terrain: Parks, wetlands and woodlands, so wear walking boots

Swaying grassland, wildflowers, and a serene, duck-filled pond all combine to beautiful effect on Wanstead Flats, the first point of note on the Epping Forest Centenary Walk towards London’s outskirts. This is a quiet part of the capital, where traffic noise dims and dog walkers sip from KeepCups and chat about the weather.  

A mile further brings you to Hollow Pond, a name that belies the enormity of the site: 13 acres of waterways complete with islands, pedalos and rowing boats. This green stretch through Upper Walthamstow is worth taking at an amble, pausing perhaps for a picnic before continuing up into Hingham’s Park. If, per chance, you haven’t had your fill of rowing, another boating lake features here, as well as an impressive neoclassical manor house, from which the park gets its name.  

Sprawling greenery makes way for dappled woodland as you leave inner London; Hatch Forest is broad and winding, and leads to Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, built at the request of Henry VIII and now a small museum. Chingford Station is only a short hop away, although keen walkers should plough on into Epping Forest, a spectacular 6,000-acre woodland and the largest open space in Greater London.

3.   Lea Valley Walk

Distance: 8 miles   Start: East India DLR Station   End: Tottenham Hale Terrain: Flat, with varying terrain from pathed road to muddy wetland

Nature and industry sit cheek by jowl on this walk, which begins at the East India Dock and follows the river for 50 miles to Luton. While a swan symbol sporadically materialises to point you in the right direction, often the way isn’t obvious, so have a phone handy to check directions.  

At the start, the 02 Arena appears almost immediately, before the path winds through Bow Creek, now a nature reserve and where views stretch out across the Olympic Park. The giant, crimson structure rising helter skelter-like from the ground is an artwork called ArcelorMittal Orbit, by Anish Kapoor and is currently closed, although normally it can be climbed.  

As the path heads north, the harsh industrial landscape transforms, coming first to Hackney Marshes and home of Sunday league football (the area has the highest number of full-size pitches in the world). In summer, Londoners descend on its shores in droves to paddle and picnic, though in spring the path is often quiet. Before reaching Tottenham Hale, you’ll also pass through Walthamstow Wetlands, one of London’s last surviving marshlands and a haven for birdlife such as kingfishers, garganeys and the rare green sandpiper.

4.   The New River Path

Distance: 6 miles Start: Bowes Park End:   Islington Terrain:   Flat, but only partly pathed, so wear sturdy footwear if it’s wet

The New River is neither new nor a river. It is, in fact, an aqueduct, completed in 1613 to carry drinking water from Hertfordshire into central London. The footpath arrived much later, in 1992, and follows the flow of this ancient waterway through the wide-open expanse of Lee Valley, past Waltham Abbey and through the enviable residential areas of Stoke Newington and Islington.  

Walking its full length would mean starting in Hertfordshire and covering 28 miles; this is perhaps a tad ambitious, so aim for the well-signed, six-mile stretch from Bowes Park instead. Here, the aqueduct is a little more elusive, often running underground, although the walk is no less beautiful, first passing underneath Wood Green Tunnel before continuing through Finsbury Park and past some truly palatial houses built in the late 1900s.  

Pretty, hipster hangout, Clissold Park, also features — expect heavily bearded Londoners having covert barbecues year-round — before the reservoir gurgles merrily on through Islington, where a walk into Angel for a flat white from Redemption Roasters is pricey but worth it.

5.   The Parkland Walk

Distance: 4.5 miles   Start:   Alexandra Palace Station End: Finsbury Park Station   Terrain:   A small hill at the start, then flat from there on in

Slicing through the leafy, village-like neighbourhoods of Crouch End and Highgate, Parkland Walk follows the route of a decommissioned railway line, out of action since 1984. The four-mile route has been transformed into a nature reserve (London’s longest, no less), home to diminutive muntjac deer, as well as 200 species of wildflower.  

Ten minutes in, from atop Muswell Hill, views stretch out across the city, before the path plunges into a woodland of oak and hornbeam. If you time your stroll to coincide with spring, bluebells carpet the stretch through Highgate, before the track takes you to the crumbling ruins of Crouch End Station. Nature is slowly reclaiming the structure, now home to an impressive colony of bats, as well as ‘the Spriggan’, an eerie, fairy-like sculpture emerging from the bricks, and work of local artist Marilyn Collins.  

When pubs reopen, be sure to end your walk with a visit to The Faltering Fullback , a London gem with one of the best beer gardens in the city.

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The best road trip from London to Wales [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 6th February 2023 | Updated: 19th November 2023

If you are thinking about taking a road trip from London to Wales, then you should most definitely do it. There are so many incredible stops along the way be it through Wiltshire, Somerset, or Gloucestershire, and that’s before even getting to Wales. There are numerous routes you can take to get between London and Wales so we will set out three of the best options that we personally love in this post, making it easy to decide which is the best road trip for you.

📍 Itinerary 1 – Road trip from London to Cardiff, South Wales

📍 Itinerary 2 – Road trip from London to Aberystwyth, West Wales

📍 Itinerary 3 – Road trip from London to Snowdonia, North Wales

Table of Contents

Road trip from London to Wales Itineraries

• Itinerary 1 – Road trip from London to Cardiff, South Wales
• Itinerary 2 – Road trip from London to Aberystwyth, West Wales
• Itinerary 3 – Road trip from London to Snowdonia, North Wales

Destinations you can’t miss on a road trip from London to Wales

How long would a road trip from london to wales be, how long does a road trip in wales take, best time to road trip from london to wales, can you do a day trip to wales from london, driving in england and driving in wales.

• How long is the drive from London to Wales? 

How many hours drive is it from England to Wales?

Can you take a train to wales from london, planning your trip use our favourite travel resources below:.

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Travel Insurance: We recommend World Nomads

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

Itinerary 1 – Road trip from London to Cardiff, South Wales

Road-tripping from London to Cardiff in South Wales is one of the easiest options to do in terms of a road trip from London to Wales. You can drive the entire 150-mile route from London to Cardiff in just over 3 hours, so it can be done in a day, but why rush when you can make a proper road trip of it and stop at a few places along the way. We recommend stopping at the following places, which will make the road trip a little longer, 175 miles and just under 4.5 hours if done in one go, but it is worth it.

Start – London

Day 1 – north wessex downs aonb.

London to the North Wessex Downs AONB takes approximately 2 hours, and 84 miles to drive. We would suggest that you stop in Avebury to explore the famous Neolithic standing stones that surround the area and visit some of the local Wiltshire White Horses as well, (chalk horses on the surrounding hills, not real horses!). Marlborough White Horse, The Alton Barnes White Horse, Cherhill White Horse, and Hackpen White Horse are all worth a visit to and often have a lovely short walk you can do in the locality.

Where to stay in the North Wessex Downs

If camping then definitely stay at Postern Hill Campsite in Savernake Forest, it is a real treat to sleep between the trees. If not, there are numerous hotel options in the centre of Marlborough, (check them out here – Expedia UK ) which is a great place to base yourself if you want to spend a couple of days exploring the area.

Day 2 – Corsham

From Avebury to Corsham will take only 35 minutes, 20 miles so it is a great place to go after visiting the North Wessex Downs to wander the historic market town and explore some of Corsham Court , (keep an eye out for the famous peacocks!). If you have the time, then it is well worth a stop at Caen Hill Locks near Devizes and the historic village of Lacock on route to Corsham from Avebury. Caen Hill Locks really has to be seen to be believed and Lacock is one of the most beautiful villages in the area due to its unspoiled appearance.

Where to stay in Corsham

Camping options are very limited near Corsham however we would recommend you stay at The Methuen Arms which is in a fantastic central location and has some of the best Sunday Roasts you will find in the UK.

Day 3 – Bath

Corsham to Bath is another short drive of only 30 minutes, roughly 10 miles. You can easily spend an entire day wandering around Bath just exploring the famous sites such as The Roman Baths , Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and Sally Lunn’s.

We can highly recommend stopping by Nata & Co Bakery or Dough if you get hungry, the pizzas are great at Dough and the empanadas at Nata & Co are on another level, perfect to take out and sit by Pulteney Weir or in Parade Gardens with.

Where to stay in Bath

Again, as it is a city location, camping is few and far between, but Bath has some great hotel options ranging from a Travelodge right up to 4 and 5-star hotels such as Hotel Indigo .

Day 4 – Bristol

Bath to Bristol will take approximately 40 minutes, 13 miles drive depending on the traffic, just avoid going in the UK rush hour as this route often gets clogged up! Bristol is a city that is full to the brim with museums and art galleries, as well as a wonderful waterfront and the grand crescents of Clifton . Be sure to take a trip on one of the Bristol Ferry Boats along the harbourside before exploring the city and finding Banksy paintings, with a stop at Brandon Hill for some of the best views over the city.

Where to stay in Bristol

There is one location you can camp at in the centre of Bristol, (but only with motorhomes or campervans, no tents), Baltic Wharf Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite . There are also countless options for staying at a hotel or B&B in the centre of Bristol, anything from a Travelodge to the Bristol Marriott Royal.

Day 5 – Cardiff

End – cardiff, south wales.

Bristol to Cardiff is only an hour’s drive, 45 miles, crossing over the River Severn into Wales, completing the road trip from London to Wales to the south of Wales and Cardiff. As the capital of Wales and the largest city in Wales, there are an abundance of things to do, places to see, and locations to eat. Cardiff Castle , Bute Park, Friary Gardens, and Cardiff Victorian Market are all well worth a visit, and you can also hire bikes and follow the River Taff out to Cardiff Bay which is a lovely few hours.

Where to stay in Cardiff

There are two great options for staying in Cardiff whilst camping, one at the Cardiff Caravan and Camping Park , or at Cosy Cinema , both in Pontcanna Fields. All if looking for a hotel then again there are plenty of options starting at a Premier Inn right up to the Cardiff Marriott.

We would highly recommend taking at least 5 days to road trip from London to Wales along this route, but of course, it can easily be completed in a day if you don’t want to stop along the way, (which you should as there are some incredible monuments and historical towns and cities to visit before you even get to Wales).

If you want to extend your road trip, then we would definitely recommend heading a bit further along the south coast of Wales to The Gower or Pembrokeshire National Park . Not only are they both absolutely stunning locations but they are also often a little quieter than some of the other more well-known locations in Wales.

 Itinerary 2 – Road trip from London to Aberystwyth, West Wales

From London to Aberystwyth is take roughly 240 miles and 5.5 hours to drive, crossing first through England westwards towards Swindon, before heading north through the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean, before crossing the River Wye and the border into Wales then heading northwest towards the stunning West Wales coast.

As per the above road trip from London to Wales, this road trip to Aberystwyth starts off on route to the North Wessex Downs AONB. Be sure to stop by Marlborough , Avebury , and a few of the local white horse hills for a walk, Definitely make sure to visit the Marlborough White Horse, Hackpen White Horse, and the Uffington White Horse , (this one has a great loop walk around the surrounding countryside).

If camping stay at Postern Hill Campsite in Savernake Forest. If wanting a bit more luxury and a hotel room, then check out Expedia UK for some of the best hotel options in Marlborough.

Day 2 – Cirencester

The second stop and we are starting to head north with a drive from Marlborough to Cirencester which takes roughly 35 minutes, 27 miles. Cirencester is brimming with history to explore and local food from the farmer’s markets to try, as well as some rather lovely parks and gardens like Abbey Grounds and Cirencester Park . Make sure you stop by South Cerney and Cerney Wick for some fun at the lakes en route between Marlborough and Cirencester, the De Vere Cotswold Water Park also offers some rather lovely afternoon tea as well.

Where to stay in Cirencester

If you are after a bit of luxury then head to The Fleece at Cirencester, if you are camping the Cirencester Park Caravan and Motorhome Campsite is your best bet.

Day 3 – Cotswolds AONB & Gloucester

The route from Cirencester to Gloucester is 18 miles long and half an hour drive, and straight through the centre of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are a few different locations you can stop at on route, such as Cowley , Sheepscombe , or Painswick to get a taste of the Cotswolds but upon reaching Gloucester you have to visit Gloucester Docks and Gloucester Cathedral to get a real feel for this city.

Where to stay in Gloucester

There are no campsites in the city centre of Gloucester but an abundance on the outskirts. We would suggest opting for Court Farm Camping or Apple Orchard Camping and Caravan Site as they are both semi on route to the next stop.

Day 4 – Forest of Dean & the Wye Valley

Gloucester to the Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley is 45 minutes, 23 miles drive, and takes you from the city living to the rural wild side of the border between England and Wales. Rather than stopping anywhere on the drive, we would suggest that you just head straight for the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail at Speech House , to while away a few hours exploring the local landscape and sculpture trail, before heading on to Symonds Yat for one of the best viewpoints and walks along the Wye Valley.

Where to stay in the Forest of Dean

There are numerous campsites to choose from in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from the paired-back, Bracelands Campsite , to the campsite with its own fishing pond, Broadstone Park Camping and Fishery , so you will be spoilt for choice.

Day 5 – Brecon Beacons National Park

The drive from the Forest of Dean to Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons National Park takes roughly 40 minutes, and 27 miles. You will drive past the wonderful market town of Abergavenny and Sugar Loaf , both of which you should stop and have a walk around / up, as well as driving near Blaenavon which is a World Heritage Site for its iron and coal industries, another great stop. Crickhowell is actually quite a small town, but it packs a punch with its famous bridge crossing the River Usk, historic castle ruins, and quaint high street, (which is home to the wonderful Latte-da Coffee and Kitchen , somewhere you have to stop and try Welsh Rarebit!).

There are of course many places to visit in the Brecon Beacons so if you want to make a few days of it then making Crickhowell, or the area nearby, your base is quite good.

Where to stay in Crickhowell

We would highly recommend camping at Cwmdu Campsite for some beautiful scenic camping with the option to stay in a shepherd’s hut or log cabins as well. It is in a great location with easy access to the surrounding National Park.

Day 6 – Elan Valley

From Crickhowell, in the Brecon Beacons National Park to the Elan Valley takes just over an hour and 44 miles and is one of the most scenic drives along this road trip from London to Wales. Stop in the quaint market town of Rhayader or by the Red Kite Feeding Centre on route before driving the Elan Valley from top to bottom taking in each of the reservoirs and dams as you go. Make sure you stop and walk around a few or at least a section of the dams, the views are some of the best in this area of Wales.

Where to stay in the Elan Valley

If you want to camp, then by far the best place to stay is at Elan Oaks Camping and Caravan Site right in the heart of the Elan Valley. If you are after a bit more luxury then head to Penbont House the perfect little B&B and holiday cottages in the Elan Valley Estate , perfect for star gazing!

Day 7 – Aberystwyth

End – aberystwyth, west wales.

For the last leg of this road trip from London to Wales sees a drive from the Elan Valley 1 hour and 35 miles west to Aberystwyth and the beautiful west coast of Wales. We would suggest that you drive directly to Aberystwyth from the Elan Valley as there is a lot to discover in Aberystwyth itself, more than enough for a couple of days. With a few beaches, (North Beach, Aberystwyth Beach, Pier Rocks, and South Beach), Aberystwyth Castle, the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway , and a town centre to explore, all before even thinking about walking some of the Ceredigion Coast Path , you will be spoilt for choice for what to do in Aberystwyth.

Where to stay in Aberystwyth

Being a major seaside town there are limited camping options in the centre, however, Midfield Holiday Park is a great option if you don’t mind a walk or drive into the centre. If you’d rather stay in Aberystwyth, then there are many options to choose from all along the bay, from a Premier Inn up to the Gwesty’r Marine Hotel and Spa .

We would highly recommend taking at least 7 days to travel from London to West Wales along this road trip. Not only has the route in England got some fantastic places to stop at, including some Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but the route through Wales is also full to the brim of unique and famous landscapes.

To extend this route further you can always stop at Aberaeron or New Quay further south along the West Wales coast, they are both beautiful little towns overlooking the Bay of Ceredigion also known as Cardigan Bay.

Itinerary 3 – Road trip from London to Snowdonia, North Wales

Getting from London to Snowdonia in the very north of Wales is actually much easier to do than it may seem. Rather than travelling up through Wales, (which we have done and is a wonderful route if you have a couple of weeks to spare), you can head north from London and skirt around Oxford and Birmingham in England before travelling west into North Wales. This takes roughly 6.5 hours and is approximately 270 miles of driving.

Day 1 – Oxford

Just under 2 hours, and 57 miles, the trip from London to Oxford sets you up for the road trip from London to Wales, passing through some of the nearby Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty before reaching the university city of Oxford. Filled with medieval architecture and 38 university colleges, the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ is perfect to explore for the day. If you want to break up the journey a little stop in the Chiltern Hills AONB , which is roughly halfway between London and Oxford, at West Wycombe Park Village and Hill , a beautiful Palladian home and historic village set in 45 acres of parkland.

Where to stay in Oxford

Valley Farm Campsite is perfect for camping in tents, campervans, or caravans, and it has options for glamping as well. If you would rather stay in a hotel, there are plenty of options in Oxford centre, check them out here – Expedia UK.

Day 2 – Cheltenham & the North Cotswolds

Oxford to Cheltenham takes 1.25 hours approximately 40 miles with some wonderful places to stop in the North Cotswolds on route including Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water . Once you reach Cheltenham, you’ll see why this beautiful regency town is a stop on this road trip from London to Wales. Full of stunning townhouses overlooking flower-filled parks, and with a farmers market selling local products in amongst the high street shops and quaint coffee shops, this small spa town is the perfect place to while away the day.

Where to stay in Cheltenham

There aren’t any campsites in Cheltenham itself, but there are a few glamping sites in the surrounding area. Hotel wise there are countless in the centre of Cheltenham including a fair few 4-star hotels overlooking Imperial Square Gardens.

Day 3 – Malvern Hills AONB & Worcester

In just under an hour and a half, you can be whisked away from the regency life in Cheltenham up to the Malvern Hills AONB and nearby Worcester. There are numerous walks you can do in the Malvern Hills AONB taking in the surrounding countryside, before heading for a wander around the town of Great Malvern to see Great Malvern Priory and Priory Park . (The ridge walk from North Quarry Car Park to Upper Beacon Road Car Park is a stunner).

From Great Malvern, it is then only a short drive to the medieval city of Worcester. Here you have to explore Worcester Cathedral with its royal tombs and crypt and pop into a museum or gallery, or have a walk along the River Severn or up Friar Street , which is particularly wonderful with its half-timbered buildings lining the way.

Where to stay in Worcester

Campsites are few and far between in Worcester so it may be best to opt for staying in a hotel or B&B in the centre, (There are some lovely riverside hotels such as Browns at the Quay ). If you really want to camp, then the best options are either Peachley Caravan and Camping Park or Mill House Caravan and Camping Site as they are both in the right direction out of Worcester to continue on with the London to Wales road trip the next day.

Day 4 – Shropshire Hills AONB & Shrewsbury

For this leg of the road trip from London to Wales there is 1.25 hours, 45 miles drive from one Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the next in the Shropshire Hills, before continuing on through to Shrewsbury for a further 40 minutes, 18 miles. The Shropshire Hills AONB covers almost a quarter of the county of Shropshire and is the place to go for some of the most beautiful hill walking along the route. Stiperstones Ridge or The Wrekin are both great places to get out and stretch those legs after a few days of driving.

From the Shropshire Hills, we then head into Shrewsbury. Shrewsbury is situated in a loop of the River Severn with a centre filled with historic buildings and gardens such as Shrewsbury Cathedral , Shrewsbury Castle, and The Quarry gardens. Beautiful red brick buildings line the streets of this town with numerous churches defining the skyline, St Chad’s and St Mary’s are worth popping in.

Where to stay in Shrewsbury

There are numerous town centre hotels to pick from, we would suggest The Bull Inn or Prince Rupert Hotel as they are close to The Beefy Boys, which is hands down the best burgers you will ever eat. In terms of campsites, there aren’t any in the centre but Oxton Hall Touring Park is a great place to stay en route to the next location. Plus there are various different camping options from tents, to campervans to mobile homes.

Day 5 – Llangollen

Day 5 of the road trip and we are finally crossing the border between England and Wales. The drive from Shrewsbury to Llangollen is approximately 1 hour, and 30 miles, and becomes more and more scenic the further you drive, with more and more opportunities for a good hike! Be sure to stop by the National Trust owned Chirk Castle once you cross the border into Wales, as this 13th-century castle is set within acres of award-winning gardens and it has a rather nice coffee shop. It is also well worth a stop at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on the outskirts of Llangollen, this engineering feat of a 19-arch aqueduct is really something quite breathtaking.

Where to stay in Llangollen

There are numerous options for camping in and around Llangollen such as Abbey Farm and Llandyn Holiday Park , which have options for glamping as well as camping with a tent or campervan. There are a few, but not many, hotels in the centre of Llangollen along the River Dee if that is more what you fancy.

Day 6 – Snowdonia National Park

End – snowdonia national park, north wales.

The final leg of the road trip between Llangollen and Snowdonia National Park may take nearly an hour and a half over 46 miles, but the views will be constantly getting better and better the further into Wales you drive. Snowdonia National Park itself is just incredible, we previously spent 5 days in Snowdonia   and it really is full to the brim with dramatic and spectacular landscapes. Before reaching Snowdonia National Park make sure to stop at the Gwydir Forest Park on the way, it has some stunning walks to really get you in the mood for exploring the whole national park.

Where to stay in Snowdonia National Park

By far one of the best places to stay in Snowdonia National Park is Bryn Gloch Caravan and Camping Park . Camping in the shadow of the surrounding mountains is something you simply must do after you have spent the days exploring them. There is also a multitude of different accommodation options from tent pitches, campervan pitches, and static caravans.

We would highly recommend taking at least 6 days to travel this route between London and North Wales. There are so many wonderful stops and incredible landscapes that you can travel past on this route that you wouldn’t want to miss, so we would suggest this road trip really should take a week.

If you want to extend this London to Wales route then why not do a full loop and head down the West Coast of Wales before cutting back across Pembrokeshire National Park , The Gower , and the Brecon Beacons National Park , before returning back to London.

If you are travelling between London and Wales, there are so many places you just cannot miss.

You must drive through the North Wessex Downs AONB, which contains some of the most incredible neolithic monuments and chalk white horses across the Wiltshire hills. Somerset and Gloucestershire have some of the biggest cities that you should stop at along the route, namely Bath, Bristol, Gloucester, and Cheltenham, as well as being on the edge of the Cotswolds AONB. You have also got the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley, Malvern Hills AONB, and Shropshire Hills AONB all along the border of England and Wales, which are all well worth a trip to.

Road trip from London to Wales FAQs

Depending on which parts of Wales you want to visit will depend on how long your road trip will need to be. If it is South Wales then it is much easier and quicker to get to from London than North Wales or Mid Wales, (you could reach Cardiff in South Wales in just a few hours from London), but if you have the time, and a week or two spare, then we would highly recommend you try and visit some of the lesser-known locations in Mid and West Wales, as well as making your way up to Snowdonia National Park.

Now again this is slightly dependent on where you want to go, as you can easily get between North Wales, say Snowdonia National Park, and South Wales, Pembrokeshire National Park or the Brecon Beacons National Park, in a week with stops along the way, but to see all the great locations in between and have a couple of days in each to explore can easily add on another week or two.

We would say if it were your first-time visiting Wales then a 10-day road trip in Wales is a good place to start, then you can get a feel for a few different locations, Snowdonia National Park, the West Wales coast, The Elan Valley, Pembrokeshire National Park and the Brecon Beacons.

The best time of year to road trip between London and Wales has to be either the spring, summer, or autumn. Spring sees the countryside coming to life after winter, summer is bustling with warmth but can be a little busier, and autumn will bring the incredible colour changes in the landscape.

In theory, yes, it is possible to do a day trip from London to Wales, but we really wouldn’t recommend it. You would miss out on so many of the wonderful things that make Wales truly unique and, in all likelihood, spend the majority of the day either sitting in a car or on a coach or sitting on a train. Trust us when we say you have to spend at least a long weekend in Wales to appreciate this country.

If you would rather do a tour from London to Wales, then check out these tours:

Driving in both England and Wales is very similar as they have all the same driving rules, the one difference is that when in Wales, (having come from London via the main motorways that cross the country), you are much more likely to suddenly come across narrow single lane roads. These are easy enough to drive though, you just need to be able to reverse occasionally! If however, you travel from London to Wales via a few locations in Wiltshire, Somerset, or Gloucestershire, you will probably come across some single-track roads in England as well.

The best place to hire a car in the UK is through Rentalcars.com . They offer the ability to pick up and drop off in different locations, so you could pick up at a London airport then drop off at Cardiff airport, and they search through numerous suppliers so you can get the best deal going.

How long is the drive from London to Wales?

The drive from London to Wales is 150 miles, which takes roughly 2.5 hours with no stops.

This depends on where in England you are driving from as the border between England and Wales is 160 miles long running between Cheshire in the north, through Shropshire, Herefordshire, and down through Gloucestershire in the south.

From some of the closer towns and cities such as Bristol, Gloucester, or Cheshire it takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to reach the centre of Wales. From other main cities in England, it obviously takes a little longer, Oxford, Birmingham, and Manchester will take between 3.5 and 4.5 hours to reach the centre of Wales.

You can take a train from London Paddington to Cardiff, but there are no other trains that will go directly elsewhere from London to Wales. Check on thetrainline.com or Busbud to see the best trains and buses for you to get from London to Wales, and often get some good deals too.

Conclusion: Road trip from London to Wales

A road trip from London to Wales, be it Cardiff in South Wales, Aberystwyth in West Wales, or Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, is one of the best road trips you can take in the UK. Stopping by various places en route in England, through Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, or even an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or two, before exploring the best of Wales, is by far the only way to road trip this stunning part of the world.

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

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15 Epic England Road Trips for your UK Bucket List!

• Last Updated 29 February 2024

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England is full of amazing road trips for your UK travel bucket list!  For such a small country, there’s a lot of variety – and some truly epic scenic drives.

With miles of rugged coastline surrounding us, it’s no surprise England has some incredible coastal drives to enjoy. Inland, you have beautiful cities packed with culture and history, idyllic rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and so much more!

Road tripping is my new favourite way to explore my home country – especially after driving the full length of it from Dorset to Scotland a few weeks ago! So,  I’ve asked a bunch of brilliant local travel bloggers  to share their favourite road trips in England. Gotta get that inspiration flowing!

So load up the boot, fire up your SatNav, programme the perfect driving playlist, and get ready to discover the very best of England from the road…

1. Cornish Coast Road Trip

2. lake district, 3. jurassic coast, 4. south england icons road trip, 5. peak district national park , 6. england midlands road trip, 7. somerset and cheddar gorge, 8. isle of wight, 9. north devon, 10. northumberland coast, 11. london to oxford and the cotswolds, 12. sussex coastal road trip, 13. new forest road trip, 14. yorkshire, 15. hadrian’s wall, ideas to extend your england road trips, 15 epic england road trips.

Recommended by: Claire,  Tales of a Backpacker

• Start: Tintagel
• Length: 200 miles 
• Suggested Time: 1 week

ROUTE: Tintagel – Padstow – Land’s End – Marazion – Falmouth – Fowey

Exploring the Cornish Coast is certainly one of the best road trips in England.  You could spend months visiting hidden coves, quaint fishing villages and jaw-dropping cliffs here. But one week is the minimum I’d recommend. 

The best of Cornwall is experienced by walking along the South West Coastal Path. There are plenty of places to park to get a good walk to admire the views. On your way between stops, take the slow roads where you can, and stop off to stretch your legs. 

On the North Cornish Coast, must-sees that are close to car parks include: Bedruthan Steps for some of the best views in Cornwall; Holywell Bay for a glorious beach; St Agnes for its rugged coast and mining history; Wheal Coates for picturesque history; and Godrevy Point near St Ives for seal spotting. 

As for villages, Port Isaac, Mousehole, and Mevagissey are some of the prettiest. Other recommended stops – if you have time – include the Minack Theatre carved out of the cliffside, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, and St Michael’s Mount.

Recommended by: Me

• Start: Windermere
• End: Ambleside
• Length: 95 miles 
• Suggested Time: 3-5 days

ROUTE: Bowness-on-Windermere – Ullswater – Keswick – Eskdale – Ambleside

Way up in the North of England , the Lake District is the perfect place for a road trip. England’s largest National Park – and a UNESCO Heritage Site to boot – this is a stunning region of towering mountains, glacial valleys, dense forests, and glittering lakes. It’s also home to some of the most scenic drives in the country!

There are many incredible routes you can take to explore the national park. I’ve borrowed the one shared by Helen for my UK road trips post , to give you an idea. Start at the tourist hotspot of Lake Windermere, before heading to “England’s prettiest lake” at Ullswater.

Next, explore the North Lakes around Keswick – including Buttermere – then head to Eskdale. This picturesque valley is famed for glorious walks – including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain  – as well as stunning waterfalls and swimming holes. 

Finish your almost-circular road trip back on the shores of Lake Windermere, this time in the pretty town of Ambleside at the northern end.

Recommended by: Me ( Dorset coast road trip itinerary here )

• Start: Bournemouth
• End: Exmouth
• Suggested Time: 3 days

ROUTE: Bournemouth – Studland – Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door – West Bay – Lyme Regis – Beer – Exmouth

Another UNESCO Heritage Site that makes a brilliant England road trip destination is the stunning Jurassic Coast in Dorset and Devon! This 95-mile stretch of coastline boasts 185 million years of history .

Famed for its fossil-rich beaches (the Victorian fossil-hunter Mary Anning lived and worked in Lyme Regis), as well as its historic seaside towns and remarkable geology… the Jurassic Coast is a dream to explore by car.

Start in Bournemouth and  take the chain-ferry across Poole Harbour to Studland  to visit Old Harry Rocks, a series of chalk stacks marking the easternmost point of the Jurassic Coast.

From there, drive along the coast to visit a few of the area’s star attractions. There’s the picturesque Lulworth Cove (and the nearby Fossil Forest), the famous archway at Durdle Door, and the towering orange cliffs at West Bay. And that’s just to name a few!

Stop off at the seaside town of Weymouth for fish and chips by the colourful fishing harbour, or head to Lyme Regis or Charmouth for fossil hunting. Finally, make your way into Devon to visit the white chalk cliffs at Beer, before passing a few more quaint beach towns on your way to Exmouth and the end of the Jurassic Coast.

READ MORE: If you have some time left over, head further along the coast into South Devon for more great seaside stops!

Recommended by: Kathryn from Travel with Kat

• Start: London
• End: London
• Length: 286 miles 
• Suggested Time: 4-6 days

ROUTE: London – Amesbury – Stonehenge – Wells – Cheddar Gorge – Bath – Lacock – Castle Combe – Windsor – London

This circular road trip takes you to some of the most famous historic sites, towns and villages in southern England .

From London, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge, stopping off at the pretty town of Amesbury along the way. In Wells, don’t miss a visit to the magnificent cathedral and the caves at nearby Wookey Hole.

Drive over the Mendips and down through Cheddar Gorge for some stunning scenery. Be sure to buy some Cheddar Cheese in the village and explore the caves where traditionally the cheese is aged.

In Bath , visit the ancient Roman Baths and explore the city’s historic streets, including the famous row of shops on Putney Bridge.

The villages of Lacock and Castle Combe are also a must. The latter is said to be the prettiest village in England. It’s also close to the M4 linking Somerset to London via Windsor, home of Windsor Castle. And from here, it’s just a short drive back to London.

Recommended by: Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple 

• Start: Buxton
• End: Buxton
• Length: 188 miles 
• Suggested Time: 5-7 days

ROUTE: Buxton – Glossop – Castleton – Bamford – Bakewell – Matlock – Dovedale – Buxton

Covering over 555sq miles, the Peak District is one of the stunning  national parks in the UK . It’s full of rolling hills, punctuated with moorlands and limestone crags.  From stunning passes, to magnificent caves, to breathtaking summits, a road trip to Peak District is sure to take you by surprise.

Highlights of the road trip include exploring Glossop and surrounding trails. Take on the Snake Pass, a beautiful drive that connects Glassop to Ladybower Reservoir.

Explore Castleton and Hope Valley, home to some stunning hiking trails like Mam Tor and dotted with caverns. And don’t miss out on driving Winnat’s Pass!

Other highlights of the National Park include Edale, Chatsworth House, Bakewell (the town famous for Bakewell tarts!), Monsal Trail, Matlock Spa town, Dovedale, and Thor’s Cave.

• Start: Birmingham
• End: Birmingham
• Length: 320 miles 
• Suggested Time: 4-5 days

ROUTE: Birmingham – Shropshire Hills – Worcester – Stratford-Upon-Avon – Nottingham – Peak District – Birmingham

Although sometimes unfairly overlooked by visitors flocking to the south or the famous cities of the north, there are plenty of amazing places to visit in the Midlands . Some incredibly scenic drives, lots of lovely landscapes, and plenty of historic towns and cities make the middle of England perfect for a road trip.

Starting and finishing in the lively city of Birmingham, England’s second-largest, you can draw a large circular route around the region. Head into the Shropshire Hills AONB for one of the most scenic drives in the midlands, then push down to the charming city of Worcester.

Next up, the canal-side town of Stratford-Upon-Avon is famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. It’s also one of the most beautiful and romantic towns in the country ! Travelling with the family? Check out these great things to do in Stratford-Upon-Avon with kids for some inspiration!

Head northeast towards Nottingham for more culture and history – and pay a visit to Sherwood Forest, home of the Robin Hood legend. Then it’s into the Peak District for scenic drives and some fabulous walks, before returning to Birmingham via another gorgeous AONB, Cannock Chase.

Recommended by: Suzanne from Meandering Wild

• Start: Minehead
• Length: 150 miles

ROUTE: Minehead – Exmoor – Glastonbury – Wells – Cheddar Gorge – Mendip Hills – Bath

This road trip starts in the seaside town of Minehead and takes you quickly onto Exmoor.  This National Park has one of the highest summits in the south of England, as well as ponies, rivers for wild swimming, and castles.

From Exmoor, the route drops down onto the Somerset Levels and visits the ancient town of Glastonbury – steeped in myths and legends – and then the nearby city of Wells, the smallest in England. Spend a night or two glamping in Somerset to make the best of the glorious countryside.

After Wells, you can explore Cheddar Gorge with deep limestone caves and high cliffs as you drive up onto the  rugged Mendip Hills  on the way to the city of Bath.

In Bath , there is beautiful Georgian architecture and the historic Roman Baths to wander around. You can also relax with a soak in the relaxing Thermae Spa.  This is the perfect end to a road trip with a real taste of everything England has to offer.

Recommended by: Zoe from Together in Transit

• Start: Ryde, Isle of Wight
• End: Ryde, Isle of Wight
• Length: 60 miles 

ROUTE: Ryde – Sandown – Ventnor – Freshwater – Cowes’

Just off the coast of southern England, the Isle of Wight is a small, but stunning little island which is perfect for road trips!

The north of the island is the best location to start your road trip, as that is where you will arrive on the boat from mainland UK.

At each location, there are unique local things to fully experience  for all ages. Such as searching for dinosaur fossils in Sandown, or stargazing the Milky Way in Ventnor.

While heading towards Freshwater, stop at Compton Bay to admire this pretty location with its white cliffs and gorgeous sandy beach. And don’t miss the iconic Needles, a series of white chalk stacks off the western coast of the island.

Finally, at Cowes, you can also take the chain bridge to East Cowes to visit Osborne House, the royal summer house of Queen Victoria.

Recommended by: Helen in Wonderlust

• Start: Exmoor National Park
• End: Clovelly
• Length: 76 miles 
• Suggested Time: 3–7 days

ROUTE: Exmoor National Park, Lynton & Lynmouth – Combe Martin – Ilfracombe – Woolacombe – Croyde Bay – Appledore – Westward Ho! – Clovelly

There are some incredible  places to visit in North Devon , which is known as being one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. It’s also only a relatively small area, so if you don’t fancy too much driving, this is a good place to visit.

Starting in Exmoor National Park, which borders both Devon and Somerset, you can explore Europe’s first Dark Sky Reserve, before meandering your way along the coast all the way down to the picturesque village of Clovelly.  

Devon is known for its quaint coastal towns and villages, beautiful beaches and delicious local cuisine. Outdoor lovers can take part in various water sports and there are also plenty of gorgeous hiking opportunities along the South West Coast Path.

Or if you’re feeling a little less energetic, grab an ice cream, enjoy a cream tea (cream first when you’re in Devon) or pause for a pint at one of the many pubs.

Recommended by: Me!

• Start: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
• End: Berwick-Upon-Tweed
• Length: 85 miles 
• Suggested Time: 2-3 days

ROUTE: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne – Alnmouth – Craster – Embleton – Beadnell – Seahouses – Bamburgh – Lindisfarne – Berwick-Upon-Tweed

Follow the northeastern coast of England from the exciting, culture-packed city of Newcastle all the way up to the border with Scotland. Along the way, explore magnificent castles, rocky headlands, hidden beaches, onshore reserves, and coastal islands.

The Northumberland Coast AONB is a particularly scenic part of the 85-mile drive north from Newcastle.

Explore historic fishing villages like Craster and Beadnell. Visit the impressive 11th-century Bamburgh Castle , perched on the coast, as well as Alnwick Castle, which was used as a filming location in the Harry Potter movies. And don’t miss a trip across to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, with its ruined Priory.

Optional extension: start with a drive through the North Pennines along the A686 – often voted one of the country’s most scenic roads – from Penrith to Haydon Bridge, before pressing on to Newcastle and the coast.

Recommended by: Dymphe, Dymabroad

• Length: 174 miles 

ROUTE: London – Oxford – the Cotswolds – Gloucester – Birmingham

One of the best road trips in England is one that starts in the city of London, then goes via Oxford , the Cotswolds, and Gloucester , to Birmingham.

What makes this road trip special is that it includes both large cities and pretty countryside spots in England. This makes the route great if you like variety!

The road trip starts in London , home to dozens of famous sights, museums, culture, and so much more. Photographers won’t want to miss the many  Instagrammable places in London before setting off on their road trip.

First, head to Oxford, home to one of the most well-known universities in the world. After that, you’ll visit the Cotswolds, where you can find beautiful landscape s and many stunning villages full of picturesque cottages.

Next up is Gloucester, a small cathedral city on the edge of the Cotswolds. Finally, head north – detouring through the stunning Malvern Hills AONB if you have time – to end up in Birmingham. This is the second-largest city in the UK, so there’s plenty to discover, including many landmarks and museums.

For more info, check out my 2 day Cotswolds driving itinerary .

Recommended by: Kathryn from Sussex Bloggers

• End: West Wittering
• Length: 104 miles 
• Suggested Time: 3-4 days

ROUTE: Rye- Hastings – Eastbourne – Beachy Head – Birling Gap – Brighton – Arundel – Amberley – Chichester – West Wittering

Rye in East Sussex is one of the most picturesque small towns in England, with cobbled streets lined with ancient timber-framed buildings. Be sure to pop by The Mermaid Inn, once home to infamous smugglers. Better still, stay the night.

From Rye, stick to the coastal road through 1066 Country , visiting Hastings before heading down to Eastbourne . From here the B2103 takes you via some impressive hairpin bends to the cliff tops and stunning sea views of Beachy Head.

Sticking with the coastal road head to Brighton, a colourful seaside town. Don’t miss the unique independent shops of The Lanes or the magnificent Royal Pavilion.

From here, head inland to the historic town of Arundel with its majestic castle. Visit the pretty village of Amberley to admire the traditional Sussex thatched and flint cottages.

The market town of Chichester has a lovely town centre and an excellent theatre. Finish with a trip to the seaside at West Wittering famed for its golden sand dunes.

Recommended by: Izzy, The Gap Decaders

• Start: Lyndhurst
• End: Lymington
• Length: 20 miles 

ROUTE: Lyndhurst – Beaulieu – Brockenhurst – Lymington

The New Forest is not actually new at all, but was planted by William the Conqueror nearly a millennia ago. The 220 square miles of national park is a mix of woodland and heathland, home to wild New Forest ponies which roam free, and makes for a perfect road trip for lovers of nature and the outdoors.

Head to the capital of the forest, Lyndhurst, to learn about the history of the area,. Next make your way to the picture-perfect village of Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum and the Beaulieu River, where Nelson’s warships were once built from local wood. This is also a perfect spot for an open-topped canoe tour or a spot of paddleboarding*, just some of the  New Forest activities  on offer in the area.

In Brockenhurst, you’ll find the start point to many of the forests gravelled cycle tracks, as well as places to hire bikes. It’s also a great start point for a walk into the open forest before settling down with a cream tea. Your last stop is Lymington where you can hire a boat, swim in the open sea-water pool, or just enjoy fish and chips on the quay.

*READ MORE: My Review of the Aquaplanet PACE stand up paddleboard

• Start: Ingleton, Yorkshire Dales
• End: Whitby, Yorkshire Coast
• Length: 117 miles 
• Suggested Time: 5-6 days

ROUTE: Ingleton – Malham – York – Yorkshire Moors – Whitby

Yorkshire is home to some of the best road trips and scenic drives in England. This county has it all: the culture and history of York, the sweeping countryside of the Yorkshire Dales and the windswept North York Moors… and a stunning coastline to boot!

Start in the Yorkshire Dales. Explore the waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails around Ingleton, before heading down to Malham Cove, a 230ft-high natural stone amphitheatre.

Take a scenic drive down to York – stopping off at the charming Victorian spa town of Harrogate on the way if you have time. Plan to spend at least a day exploring York, with its ancient walls, picturesque town centre, and chocolatey connections !

Finally, drive through the stunning North York Moors to the coast. Explore the small fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay, known for its cobbled streets and sandy beach. End the trip in the seaside town of Whitby, home to the famous Whitby Abbey.

• Start: Wallsend (in Newcastle)
• End: Bowness-on-Solway
• Length: 80 miles 

ROUTE: Wallsend – Hexham – Brampton – Carlisle – Bowness-on-Solway

Hadrian’s Wall once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire, stretching for nearly 80 miles from the east to the west coast. Some 2,000 years later, many parts of the wall – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – still remain.

There are many road trips you could take across the width of England, but there’s something special about following this Ancient Roman route.

Drive from east to west, stopping at historic sites like Heddon-on-the-Wall and Corbridge Roman Fort. Between Hexham and Brampton you can follow the Hadrian’s Wall Tourist route , signposted with the Roman helmet symbol.

Finally, from Carlisle, drive up through the Solway Coast AONB to reach the Solway Firth on the Irish Sea. Use this fab guide from English Heritage to plan your route and choose your stops.

Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of England

Series: Local Guides to UK Cities

17 of the Most Amazing UK Road Trips

Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in England

Have you done any of these England road trips – or any others? Share your experiences in the comments!

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 7 Places that Will Make You Want to Take a Road Trip in North Wales

My great British road trip has started strong with stops in some of England’s most beautiful destinations. But after a week on the road, it’s time to head to Wales. I’ve spent time in the Brecon Beacons and the south over the last few years, and I’ve been itching to explore more of the north. Now my patience is being rewarded with the discovery of 7 great places on my road trip in North Wales.

Road Trip in North Wales

After traveling to the Lake District , Yorkshire Dales , and Chester , my boyfriend and I hop in our camper van and spend 5 days driving around North Wales. Here’s what we find.

We choose Denbigh as our first stop, mostly because it’s a good place to break up the drive from Chester to Snowdonia National Park.

But when we arrive we discover it’s a lot more than that. The high street is lovely, and the side street we park on is called Love Lane. Swoon.

Add to that the ruins of a hilltop castle and Denbigh becomes a highlight of our time in North Wales.

2. Snowdonia National Park

But what comes next is even better. The drive from Denbigh to Snowdonia is nothing short of breathtaking. As flat ground gives way to rolling hills and mountains, the drama unfolds as the road curves.

Once in Snowdonia, we spend two days doing as much outdoor exploration as we can. We’re unlucky with the weather on our first day, but it doesn’t stop us from walking around Llyn Idwal lake.

The two-hour hike takes us by stunning peaks and past the Idwal Slabs, a mountaineering training area for serious climbers including Everest conqueror Edmund Hillary.

Down south, we walk in the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve.

The three-hour hike takes us along the River Gamlan and past the magical Rhaeadr Ddu waterfalls. Heavy rain the previous night means the water is gushing and the views are spectacular.

3. Penrhyn Castle

Traveling north, we leave Snowdonia for the next stop on our road trip in North Wales: Penrhyn Castle.

Built in the 19th century, it’s less a fortification than a fantasy. But that’s okay with me, because it’s pretty spectacular to see a Victorian interpretation of a medieval fortress.

4. Anglesey

Beyond the castle lies Anglesey , an island at the edge of North Wales. We spend a night here, exploring everything we can while we’re in the area.

From crescent beaches to stunning lighthouses, the island’s wild beauty and remoteness capture our hearts.

5. Caernarfon

After Anglesea we head back across the Menai Strait to the fortified town of Caernarfon.

The town is known for its castle, which we could spend all day exploring. But we also find a lot of pretty streets, hilltop views, and cozy pubs to enjoy while we’re here.

6. Portmeirion

Driving south again, we spend two nights in one of the most hotly-anticipated places to visit in North Wales—for me, anyway.

The coastal village of Portmeirion is straight out of a fairy tale. Or a picture of seaside Italy. Brightly colored buildings of all styles climb the hillside, and everywhere I look I find some new detail that delights.

7. Powis Castle

As if Portmeirion isn’t impressive enough, the last stop on our road trip in North Wales is Powis Castle. Perched on a hill above topiary yews and fanciful sculptures, the castle is the stuff of dreams.

It’s the perfect place to end our time in North Wales, and gives us a great send-off as we continue our trip in England. I’ll be writing more about some of these places over the next week, so make sure to come back for the rest of the story.

In the meantime, the next stop on our great British road trip is Wiltshire . Stay tuned…

How about you? Where would you go on a road trip in North Wales?

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16 Comments on Lady’s 7 Places that Will Make You Want to Take a Road Trip in North Wales

I had already picked North Wales as a future trip and knew about several of these places but you added a few I hadn’t heard of too. It looks spectacular in your photos. I’m going to need to take a months off work someday just to visit the places I most want to see on Great Britain alone, thanks to you! 🙂

Thanks, Blaise! There are so many amazing places to visit in North Wales. It was hard to narrow down our list, too!

Lovely photos, now a few more places to add to my list 😀

Thanks, Andrew! I hope you enjoy them when you visit.

I love Wales! If I didn’t already have family property in Ireland, I’d gladly move to Wales and settle there. Wales has such a soft spot in my heart.

These pictures are wonderful and that VW van makes me nostalgic for time spent in Wales and Ireland!.

Nice! I can see why you love Wales so much.

As a resident of North Wales I’m very happy that you enjoyed your visit and hope you will decide to return again in the future. During that visit you may be able to fully appreciate the language and culture of this wonderful part of the world as well as its undoubted scenic beauty. We have our own language, reputed to be the oldest language in Europe, and Caernarfon is the Welsh speaking capital of the world!

Felly tan y tro nesaf, pob hwyl a iechyd da! So until the next time, good luck and good health!

Thanks, Dylan! I hope to be back. We definitely appreciated the culture and language while we were there. It was great to hear so many people speaking Welsh in Caernarfon.

I’ll be replicating this trip next week…I was about to do my planning but now no need..thank you

You’re welcome! I’m glad you found it helpful.

I love Wales. It has so many places that have not been spoiled. Given the choice, I would go and live there tomorrow, but work commitments mean it’s out of the question

I hope you can live there someday. It’s a beautiful part of the UK.

The Llyn peninsula is also a spectacular corner of North Wales. Stunning coastal views, beaches and villages. Well worth a visit.

Thanks, Nicola! Sounds like I need to take another trip soon.

Ahh your camper looks so cool! What a great way to get about! I’m so envious! This part of Wales looks lovely.

Yeah, it was really fun to go around in a camper van!

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